How to request reasonable adjustments from a landlord or housing association
How to ask a housing provider to change a policy, communication method or physical feature because of disability.
Last reviewed: 6 July 2026 · UK guidance
In brief
A reasonable adjustment removes or reduces a substantial disability-related disadvantage. In housing, the request may concern communication, appointments, rent administration, antisocial-behaviour processes, tenancy conditions, access or a physical feature. The legal duties and who pays can depend on the tenure and type of change.
Describe the barrier and the change that would solve it. You do not need to disclose every medical detail, but provide enough information to show disability and disadvantage. Ask for the decision, reasons, timescale and alternative proposals in writing.
Name the specific disadvantage
Examples include being unable to use telephone-only reporting, missing visits without a longer appointment window, difficulty understanding complex letters, or being unable to access a communal entrance. Explain what happens under the current arrangement.
Propose a workable adjustment
Ask for email contact, an authorised representative, reminders, accessible documents, extra response time, a consistent officer, a changed inspection process or a physical alteration. Offer alternatives where more than one solution could work.
Provide proportionate evidence
A GP, occupational therapist or support worker can confirm functional impact and the recommended change. For urgent safety, ask the provider not to delay temporary action while awaiting a detailed report.
Keep adaptations and repairs clear
A reasonable-adjustment request may overlap with a Disabled Facilities Grant, landlord repair duty or social-care equipment. Ask the provider to coordinate routes rather than reject the request simply because another team may fund part of it.
Challenge a refusal constructively
Request the factors considered, cost evidence, alternatives and complaints route. Use housing advice or the relevant ombudsman or legal route where a provider has not properly considered the disability disadvantage.
Request a housing adjustment
Send to the landlord or housing association.
Because of [disability or impairment], the current [policy, communication method or physical feature] puts me at a substantial disadvantage by [specific impact]. I am requesting [adjustment]. If that cannot be agreed, please discuss an effective alternative, explain the reasons and evidence considered, and confirm the decision timetable and complaints route in writing.
A practical checklist
- Describe the barrier and its consequence.
- Ask for a specific effective change.
- Provide focused functional evidence.
- Request reasons and alternatives after refusal.
Check the current information
These are the most relevant official or specialist places to confirm live rules, availability and application details.
equalityadvisoryservice.com
Open official informationhousing-ombudsman.org.uk
Open official informationgov.uk
Open official informationgov.uk
Open official informationChoose one next action
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