Windows inaccessible

angeuk

Hello there, first time poster, long time lurker

My problem is this: I've lived in a Housing Assoc flat for 9 years. During that time, due to a disability, I've never been able to open the windows. The locks are too high up and to open the kitchen windows I'd have to climb onto the work surfaces. In fact, the windows are difficult to open for anyone without a disability. The locks are over 6 feet from the floor, around 6' 6" in the kitchen.

I read in the HA magazine that they'd changed the windows in the home of one elderly lady to make them accessible. I had no idea they'd do it, so I've asked for easier access too.

Basically, they've turned me down flat. I've the option to appeal, which I will. They say they won't change the windows, but will look into changing the locks. I know that moving the locks isn't an option on the units, they are double glazed sash windows. Even with locks on the bottom of the kitchen windows, the leverage required to reach over the units is beyond me.

What I'd like to know is are the HA doing anything either illegal or discriminatory by denying me correct access to the windows? There is a vent in the kitchen wall and a back door. I don't want the back door open for security reasons. Has anyone got any advice?

Many thanks in anticipation.

Patr100

Often with windows fitted now and building regs, depending on their position with the outside , you need quick access/exit in the event of a fire. Might be worth pursuing on that issue.

poppy10_2

If you can't access the windows because of your disability, ask your GP to refer you for an occupational therapy assessment of your home. They will be able to assess whether you need any adaptations made to your flat as a result of your disability and will liaise with social services and the housing association regarding funding options

Jowo_2

Patr100 wrote: »

Often with windows fitted now and building regs, depending on their position with the outside , you need quick access/exit in the event of a fire. Might be worth pursuing on that issue.

The OP mentions a backdoor so perhaps the fire escape health and safety obligations have been met.

Perhaps an advice or disability charity could advise the OP on the landlord's responsibilities under the Disability Discrimination Act. Shelter might be a good place to start.

There's a basic guide here which though is probably pitched at landlord's is probably helpful to tenants, too.

http://www.aviva.co.uk/risksolutions/pdf/hardfacts/management_of_risk/1030-dda-aguideforlandlordsofresidential-prop-v2.pdf

angeuk

Re. fire regulations, I did think about pursuing that line. I'm sure that they'll reply that there is a back door on the kitchen, so an escape route is available.

I just find it bizarre that window locks should be placed 6 feet off the ground. My carer is 5 foot seven and she has trouble placing the keys in the locks, as they have to be dropped vertically into position. So a reach of around 6' 7" is required. That's also working blind, as you cannot actually see the locks at that height, just feel them.

Many thanks for the advice. I shall contact my GP for an OT visit, perhaps that is the best way to proceed.

squinty

This does not appear to be discriminatary. The HA does have to make reasonable adjustments - and reasonableness will take account of the cost of the change, and difference it would make to you.

It is very unlikley that major structural works would fit into this category. Especially as you appear to have a front and back door at the property (so windows are not needed for emergency egress)

You could, of course, ask the HA for permission for you to change the windows yourself - it may be unreasonable for them to refuse this as you would be bearing the cost

chappers

My mother lives in a house that was previously occupied by a wheel chair user, the windows have winder handles at cill level which open the windows on a sliding bar mechanism.

dopester

angeuk wrote: »

What I'd like to know is are the HA doing anything either illegal or discriminatory by denying me correct access to the windows? There is a vent in the kitchen wall and a back door. I don't want the back door open for security reasons. Has anyone got any advice?

Many thanks in anticipation.

I don't think there is the money available for many a HA to retrofit many of these properties to the needs of the elderly / those with a disability. I don't know if you could push it to make it an issue they have to deal with - maybe so.

On the upside, new homes to be built in the near future are set to meet more of the requirements, through design.

poppysarah

That's insane! Although building enough bungalows for people who want them would be a good plan. Always a massive queue for them on social housing - and dearer too for what they are.