Inclusive Rentals: Accessibility for All Tenants
As a landlord, ensuring your rental properties are accessible not only widens your potential tenant pool but also reflects a dedication to inclusivity. By accommodating individuals with disabilities, you tap into a market that is often underserved, potentially reducing vacancies and enhancing your public image. Here's how you can make your rental properties more accessible.
Conduct an Accessibility Review: Start by reviewing your properties to identify any barriers that might hinder ease of use for individuals with disabilities. Consider the layout of pathways, the width of doorways, the presence of steps, bathroom configurations, and the placement of light switches.
Install Ramps and Support Bars: Simple additions like ramps at entrances and support bars in bathrooms can significantly improve accessibility for tenants with mobility challenges. These features are also appealing to older tenants, increasing your property's attractiveness.
Assess Doorway and Corridor Widths: Ensure that doorways and corridors are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, typically requiring a width of 32 inches. Consider modifying existing structures to meet these standards where possible.
Modify Kitchens and Bathrooms: Kitchens and bathrooms often need adjustments to be fully accessible. Features like adjustable countertops, easy-to-reach appliances, and wet room bathrooms can greatly improve usability for tenants with disabilities.
Enhance Lighting and Signage: Good lighting and clear signage can aid tenants with visual impairments in moving around their homes. Use high-contrast signs for room labels and instructions, and ensure all areas are well-illuminated.
Consult Professionals with Burnett's Help: At Burnett's, we can provide valuable insights and support to landlords looking to enhance accessibility. We can assist you in connecting with experts in the field to ensure your modifications meet legal requirements and are effective. This includes liaising with professional builders familiar with accessibility standards and legal advisors to ensure compliance with housing regulations.
Investing in these modifications not only makes your properties suitable for a broader range of tenants but also positively contributes to the community by promoting inclusivity. Accessible properties can attract a market segment often overlooked, potentially increasing your rental returns. At Burnett's, we're here to assist you in making your properties more inclusive and appealing.