The government has recently launched a consultation (Thursday 9th June)  on its policy obliging landlords (seemingly not mandatory) to change or modify communal areas outside disabled tenants’ homes.

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The government’s new policy comes from its titled ‘Equality Hub’ with its objectives for homes to be made “safer and more accessible”, as stated in the consultation.

The modifications could be made to communal areas of rented and leasehold homes and may include the installation of handrails, ramps and even stairlifts.

Disabled tenants may be able to ask for changes such as an allocated parking space in easy access to the entrance of their home or building, improved lighting and guide rails.

The government states that the policy could broaden the present Equality Act and will make homes far more disabled user friendly with easier access to work, meeting up with friends, shopping, and make buildings far safer in case of emergencies.

The consultation says this shows that the “government provides the leadership needed in difficult times, and makes sure everyone is able to reach their full potential.”

Currently the Equality Act imposes a duty on landlords to either make changes or allow reasonable modifications to be  made inside their disabled tenants’ homes.

There is a Disabled Facilities Grant that landlords and people can apply for from local councils which can be used towards the cost of modifying an eligible person’s residence, as well as any communal areas within a building. It is also mandatory for local housing authorities to undertake alterations to disabled people’s homes which qualify for the grant.

Equalities minister Kemi Badenoch said:  “Being able to safely and easily leave one’s home - to go to work, grab milk from the shops, or to meet a friend for a coffee - is something many of us take for granted. But for disabled people this can be a difficult, demotivating, and sometimes impossible challenge.

“This policy would ensure every disabled tenant has the right to ask for changes to where they live, so they can access and leave their homes without fear or difficulty.

“We want to hear the views of everyone impacted by our plans, to make sure we can make lasting change to people’s lives.”