Step-by-Step: Disability Access & Adjustments in NT

Renting a home in the Northern Territory should not mean compromising on accessibility. If you have a disability, understanding your rights and how to request adjustments is key to ensuring a safe and comfortable living environment. Here, we guide you through the steps to secure necessary disability access and reasonable adjustments.

Understanding Disability Access and Adjustments

In Australia, renters have the right to request reasonable adjustments to their rented property to accommodate disabilities. These adjustments should not impose an undue hardship on the landlord and are generally aimed at improving accessibility.

What Constitutes a Reasonable Adjustment?

A reasonable adjustment might include installing ramps, widening doorways, or adding bathroom grab rails. The goal is to make a dwelling accessible so that it can be safely and independently navigated by the renter.

Steps to Request Adjustments

Step 1: Identify Your Needs

Begin by assessing your living situation to identify what adaptations are necessary. Each individual’s requirements will vary based on their circumstances.

Step 2: Communicate with Your Landlord

Initiate an open discussion with your landlord. Clearly outline your needs and propose specific modifications. Written communication ensures there’s a record of your request.

Step 3: Make a Formal Request

For formal documentation, fill out the Residential Tenancies Form 6: Application for Rent Increase, Extensions, or Modifications to request adjustments. This helps in clarifying the scope and costs involved. This form can be found on the NT Government website.

Step 4: Consider Mediation if Necessary

If the landlord is hesitant, you may seek assistance from the Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT), which handles residential tenancy disputes. Mediation services can assist in negotiating an agreement.

Step 5: Legal Recourse

If an agreement cannot be reached, you may apply to NTCAT for a formal resolution. Reference Northern Territory Residential Tenancies Act 1999 for relevant legislation.

Always keep copies of all correspondences and legal documents for future reference.

Ensuring Compliance with the Law

As a tenant, you are not required to reverse modifications when vacating, unless otherwise agreed upon. Reasonable adjustments should also comply with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT) - Visit the website for more information or to lodge a claim.
• Northern Territory Government - Tenancy rules and rights in the NT
• Legal Aid Northern Territory - Free legal counselling and support

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1. What counts as a reasonable adjustment? A reasonable adjustment includes changes that make a home accessible for a person with disabilities without imposing undue hardship on the landlord. Examples include ramps, modifying bathrooms, and increasing doorway widths.
2. Can my landlord refuse to make adjustments? Landlords may refuse if the requested modifications are unjustifiably devastating economically to them. Otherwise, denial may be unlawful under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.
3. Do I need to undo changes when I move? Generally, tenants are not required to reverse modifications unless specifically agreed in the tenancy contract.
4. Who pays for the adjustments? Costs for modifications should be discussed with the landlord. Depending on the adjustment, costs may be shared or fully covered by the landlord or tenant.

1. How to Request Disability Adjustments in NT
   1. Identify needs relevant to your living situation and list required modifications.
   2. Open communication: Discuss adjustments with your landlord, presenting your requirements clearly.
   3. Complete official documentation: Submit the relevant applications such as Residential Tenancies Form 6.
   4. Seek professional mediation if negotiations with your landlord stall.

Renters should be proactive in understanding and exercising their rights to secure the living conditions they require. All steps should be documented to ensure clarity and compliance with NT's rental laws.

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1. Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)
2. Northern Territory Residential Tenancies Act 1999
3. Disability Discrimination Act 1992

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