How should I assess a home for household accessibility needs?

Follow the whole journey

Assess accessibility from the point where someone arrives, not just at the front door. Look at surfaces, gradients, steps, gates, lighting and the space needed to turn or rest. A home described as single-level may still have a difficult approach or an awkward bathroom threshold.

Walk through everyday activities with the person concerned: entering with bags, reaching switches, preparing food, bathing and getting outdoors. Measure the openings and spaces relevant to their equipment, with consent, rather than estimating from photographs. Check whether parking and waste collection arrangements are workable too.

Test before committing

Request a viewing that allows time for practical checks. Where travel is difficult, ask for a continuous video walkthrough and specific measurements, while recognising that neither replaces an individual assessment.

An occupational therapist or other appropriate professional can help assess complex needs. Discuss proposed alterations with the owner and a qualified building professional, and verify permissions with the relevant authority before assuming adaptations are possible. Keep a written list of essential requirements separate from desirable conveniences.