Disability Access & Adjustments WA: What Renters Need to Know

If you're renting a property in Western Australia and require disability access or reasonable adjustments, it's essential to understand your rights and obligations. Western Australian law supports renters with disabilities, ensuring they can live comfortably and safely in their accommodation.

Understanding Disability Access and Reasonable Adjustments

In Western Australia, the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 outlines the rules that govern rental agreements, including provisions that support tenants with disabilities. This Act is instrumental in ensuring that adjustments needed for accessibility are considered in rental properties.

What Are Reasonable Adjustments?

Reasonable adjustments refer to changes landlords may need to make so that a person with a disability can live comfortably in a rented property. These adjustments might include installing ramps, widening doorways, or modifying bathrooms. The adjustments should be practical and not impose significant costs or inconvenience on the landlord.

How to Request Adjustments

If you require adjustments to your rental property, it's crucial to have a clear discussion with your landlord. Here are steps you can take:

1. Identify the adjustments needed and ensure they are reasonable and justifiable under your circumstances.
2. Approach your landlord with your request, preferably in writing, highlighting how these changes will support your living needs.
3. Provide documentation from healthcare providers if necessary to support your request.

For adjustments that may cause structural changes, your landlord might ask you to use a specific form. Be sure to check for any specific requirements they may have.

Legal Framework Supporting Disability Rights

The Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth) plays a significant role in protecting tenants' rights across Australia. This Act, along with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, ensures that individuals with disabilities receive fair treatment and access to necessary services in their rental situations.

Remember, landlords in WA cannot refuse your request for reasonable adjustments without a valid reason. They are required to engage in finding a solution that supports your needs.

Dispute Resolution and Support

If disagreements arise regarding accessibility adjustments, you may need to involve the relevant authorities. In Western Australia, the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety is responsible for overseeing residential tenancy issues, including disputes related to disability access.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Tenancies Act 1987 Details
• WA Public Tenancy Information Office
• Consumer Protection - Renting a Home, WA

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1. What is considered a reasonable adjustment? Reasonable adjustments are modifications that help a tenant with a disability live comfortably and safely. They are deemed reasonable if they do not impose significant hardship on the landlord.
2. Can a landlord deny disability-related modifications? Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse requests for necessary modifications. However, they can deny requests if the modifications cause undue hardship or structural changes that are not feasible.
3. How do I dispute a landlord's refusal? If a landlord refuses reasonable modifications without a valid reason, tenants can seek help from the Western Australia Department of Commerce or the rental dispute tribunal.

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Key Takeaways

• Understand your rights under the Western Australian Residential Tenancies Act 1987 for reasonable adjustments.
• Engage your landlord with clear, documented requests for necessary modifications.
• Utilize available resources for further guidance and dispute resolution.

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^1 Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)

^2 Residential Tenancies Act 1987

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