Disability Access and Adjustments in Tasmania: Your Rights

Renting in Tasmania comes with various rights and responsibilities, especially for those who require disability access and reasonable adjustments. Understanding your legal protections and the cooperation required from your landlord can make a substantial difference in your renting experience. Here's a guide to common questions and answers about disability access and adjustments in Tasmania.

Understanding Disability Access in Rentals

If you are living with a disability, your ability to access and enjoy your rented accommodation is protected under legislation. This means landlords must ensure their properties are reasonably accessible and make specific adjustments if necessary.

What Are Reasonable Adjustments?

Reasonable adjustments refer to changes or modifications that allow individuals with disabilities to live comfortably in their rented homes. These can range from installing ramps and handrails to modifying bathroom fittings.

Legal Framework in Tasmania

The key legislation governing rental agreements in Tasmania is the Residential Tenancy Act 1997. This act, alongside the federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992, enforces the standards landlords must adhere to regarding accessibility and reasonable modifications for tenants with disabilities.

Communicating With Your Landlord

Open communication with your landlord is essential when discussing necessary adjustments. Here are steps you can take:

• Formally request the needed adjustments in writing, outlining your specific needs.
• Refer to the relevant parts of the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 to support your request.
• Negotiate any costs involved in adjustments, noting whether subsidies or grants might lower financial strain.

Your landlord cannot legally refuse reasonable alterations that enable you to enjoy your home unless they prove it imposes unjustifiable hardship.

Challenges and Solutions

If facing resistance from your landlord, consider seeking mediation or formal dispute resolution. The Residential Tenancy Commissioner in Tasmania is the official point of reference for resolving such disputes.

Further Questions About Disability Access and Adjustments

1. Is my landlord obligated to cover the cost of modifications?

The landlord is not always required to cover the costs of modifications, but they should work with you to find a reasonable solution.

2. What if my landlord refuses my requests for adjustments?

You can contact the Residential Tenancy Commissioner for assistance in dispute resolution if negotiations with your landlord fail.

3. Can I be evicted for requesting adjustments?

No, requesting reasonable adjustments is a right, and retaliation such as eviction is prohibited by law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

For support in understanding your rights or managing disputes, consider reaching out to the following resources:

• Tenants’ Union of Tasmania
• Hobart Community Legal Service
• Residential Tenancy Commissioner

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1. What constitutes a reasonable adjustment?

   Reasonable adjustments are specific changes made to the rental property to accommodate a tenant's disability needs.

2. How do I request a modification from my landlord?

   Requests should be made in writing, detailing the needed adjustments and citing relevant legislative support.

3. What is the Residential Tenancy Act 1997?

   This piece of legislation governs residential renting agreements in Tasmania, including provisions for disability access.

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