To educate learners on how to source, adapt, and design properties suitable for supported living tenants.
Acquire Knowledge, Empower Self.
Our comprehensive learning will equip learners to understand supported living deeply and navigate the associated property investment landscape effectively while avoiding common pitfalls.
Specific Property Needs, Adaptations, and Planning
Module 02: Property Assessment & Compliance
Objective
Topics Covered
Common property requirements for supported living
Accessibility features: ramps, wet rooms, widened doors, etc.
Fire safety, building regs, and Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
Planning permission and permitted development rules
Working with Occupational Therapists and providers to meet tenant needs
Layout changes, security, and privacy considerations
01
General Property Standards
Essential requirements for supported living properties
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Safety
Safe and Well-Maintained
Properties must be fit for habitation, hazard-free, and with all essential systems (water, gas, electricity, sanitation, heating, hot water) in working order.
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Layout
Appropriate Size & Layout
Adequate bedrooms, communal spaces, and secure storage preserve privacy and dignity.
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Accessibility
Accessibility & Location
Housing should be accessible and well-located with links to essential services and social opportunities, meeting statutory and commissioning standards.
02
Accessibility Features
Key modifications for inclusive living spaces
Entrances and Pathways
Ramps (1:12 gradient max), wide walkways, and step-free access.
Widened Doors
Minimum 81cm (32in) clear opening, with lever handles.
Bathrooms
Wet rooms, roll-in showers, grab bars, accessible sinks, outward-swinging/sliding doors.
Additional Features
Stairlifts, elevators, uncluttered pathways, accessible switches, adjustable fixtures.
03
Fire Safety, Building Regs, and HHSRS
Compliance and safety requirements
Fire Safety
Risk assessments, smoke detectors, escape routes, fire doors, sprinklers if required.
Building Regulations
All adaptations must comply with UK Building Regulations.
HHSRS
Framework for 29 hazard categories. Category 1 hazards require mandatory remediation.
04
Planning Permission & Permitted Development
Legal requirements for property modifications
Small Scale
Small-Scale Adaptations
May not require planning permission (still within C3 use class).
Large Scale
Larger Schemes
Significant changes or increased residents may shift into C2 class, requiring permission.
Permitted
Permitted Development
Some changes allowed without permission, unless restricted by Article 4 Directions.
05
Working with Occupational Therapists and Providers
Collaborative approach to tenant needs
Assessment & Customization
OTs assess functional needs and recommend modifications for independence and safety.
Collaborative Planning
OTs, providers, and landlords work together for cost-effective adaptations and training.
06
Layout Changes, Security, and Privacy
Design considerations for supported living properties
Open but Zoned Layouts
Balance between communal and private spaces.
Privacy & Security
Access controls, zoning, staff monitoring points, external lighting.
Defensible Space
Secure outdoor areas for safety and comfort.
Smart & Digital Tech
Door entry, alarms, CCTV, assistive tech.
Privacy Protections
Lockable, private bathrooms/bedrooms for dignity.
Key Outcomes
Identify what makes a property suitable for supported living
Learn how to plan and adapt homes to meet compliance and tenant requirements