Accessible Care Property: Finding and Preparing Suitable UK Accommodation

A practical guide for landlords, investors, developers and care providers sourcing accessible property for disabled adults, supported living and specialist care services across the UK

Accessible care property is accommodation that has been designed, adapted or selected to meet the mobility, care and independence needs of people who may require additional support. It can range from wheelchair accessible houses and adapted flats to specialist supported living schemes and residential care homes.

The type of property required depends on the residents and the care model. A supported living property for adults who live independently with visiting or continuous support can have different requirements from a care home where accommodation and personal care are provided together.

CQC distinguishes these models. In supported living, a person lives in their own home and receives care or support, with the care regulated by CQC while the accommodation is generally not. Care homes are different because accommodation and personal care are provided together.

For property owners, understanding this distinction before purchasing, adapting or leasing a building can prevent costly mistakes.

What Is Accessible Care Property?

Accessible care property is residential accommodation that enables people with disabilities or care needs to live safely, comfortably and with an appropriate level of independence.

It can include:

• Wheelchair accessible houses

• Adapted flats

• Accessible bungalows

• Supported living properties

• Specialist supported housing

• Purpose-built disability accommodation

• Residential care homes

• Extra care housing

• Accessible shared accommodation

• Properties adapted for people with complex physical needs

The correct specification should be based on the intended residents rather than simply describing a property as "accessible".

A property may have step-free access but still be unsuitable because the bathroom is too small, corridors are narrow or there is insufficient space for specialist equipment.

What Makes a Property Suitable for Accessible Care?

The property should be assessed as a complete living environment.

Important considerations include:

• Step-free access

• Suitable entrance widths

• Internal circulation space

• Accessible bedrooms

• Adapted bathrooms

• Practical kitchen layouts

• Mobility equipment storage

• Accessible communal areas

• Suitable outdoor space

• Parking or drop-off arrangements

• Emergency evacuation arrangements

• Space for carers or support workers where required

Government planning guidance states that accessible and adaptable housing should provide safe and convenient approaches, suitable circulation space and appropriate bathrooms and kitchens. It also recognises additional features for wheelchair users.

Wheelchair Accessible Care Property

Wheelchair accessibility is particularly important when sourcing property for adults with physical disabilities.

Depending on residents' needs, adaptations may include:

• Level entrances

• Ramps

• Wider doorways

• Accessible corridors

• Turning areas

• Level-access showers

• Wet rooms

• Accessible toilets

• Lower kitchen worktops

• Accessible appliances

• Appropriate switches and controls

• Hoist-compatible bedrooms

• Mobility equipment storage

Accessibility should be assessed from the moment a resident arrives at the property.

A wheelchair user should be able to move from an appropriate parking or drop-off point through the entrance and into the relevant living areas without encountering unnecessary barrier