Disability Access and Adjustments in South Australia

Renters with disabilities in South Australia have certain rights to ensure their homes are accessible and suitable for their needs. Understanding these rights and knowing how to advocate for necessary changes is essential for creating an inclusive living environment. This article addresses common questions about disability access and reasonable adjustments for renters in South Australia.

Understanding Reasonable Adjustments

Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, reasonable adjustments are changes that allow people with disabilities to live comfortably and accessibly. In South Australia, landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations unless doing so unjustifiably causes hardship.

Examples of Reasonable Adjustments

• Installing ramps for wheelchair access
• Widening doorways
• Altering bathroom fittings

Before making any adjustments, renters should discuss their needs with their landlord and obtain written consent.

Requesting Adjustments

To request adjustments, you can submit the Request for Repairs or Maintenance form. Ensure you clearly state the modification needed and why it's essential for accessibility. It's a good idea to back up your request with a medical professional's note if possible. You can download the form from SA.gov.au.

Your Rights under South Australia's Residential Tenancies Act

The Residential Tenancies Act 1995 protects tenants from discrimination. If a landlord refuses reasonable adjustments without a valid reason, renters can file a dispute with the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT).

Renters are encouraged to communicate openly with their landlords to find amicable solutions that accommodate both parties' needs.

FAQ Section

1. What if my landlord refuses the adjustments? If a landlord refuses reasonable adjustments, contact SACAT for dispute resolution.
2. Can landlords raise rent for making adjustments? It depends. Landlords should not increase rent solely because of accessibility changes unless they can prove a direct cost impact.
3. Who pays for the adjustments? Typically, landlords cover minor adjustments, but tenants may share costs for major renovations.

How To Section

1. How to request adjustments in South Australia
   1. Step 1: Assess your needs.

      Identify what modifications are necessary to accommodate your disability.

   2. Step 2: Gather documentation.

      Obtain any supporting documentation from healthcare providers to verify your request.

   3. Step 3: Submit a formal request.

      Use the Request for Repairs or Maintenance form to outline your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Understand your rights under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and South Australia's Residential Tenancies Act 1995.
• Communicate openly with your landlord to negotiate reasonable adjustments.
• Take action by submitting the necessary forms and documentation to request changes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

For further assistance, consider reaching out to:

• Consumer and Business Services (CBS) South Australia
• South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)
• Legal Services Commission of South Australia

---

1. Disability Discrimination Act 1992: legislation.gov.au
2. Residential Tenancies Act 1995: legislation.sa.gov.au
3. Request for Repairs or Maintenance Form: SA.gov.au

Categories

General Tenant Rights & Protections Tenancy Agreements & Renewals Rent, Bond & Holding Deposits Moving In & Condition Reports Ending a Tenancy & Moving Out Repairs, Maintenance & Urgent Issues Minimum Standards & Habitability Evictions & Breach Notices Co-Tenancies, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Equal Housing Access Disability Access & Reasonable Adjustments Utilities, Water & Internet Billing Public, Community & Social Housing Rent Increases & Rent Controls Privacy & Landlord Entry Rules Locks, Keys & Security Obligations Resolving Disputes & Tribunal Processes Harassment, Threats & Landlord Misconduct Boarding Houses, Rooming Houses & Lodgers Caravan Parks & Residential Parks Bond Refunds & Claims Notice Periods & Tenancy Termination Entry Condition Breaches & Compensation Tenant Advocacy & Legal Aid