If the disabled person’s resources are less than this assessment, then they will not normally need to contribute to the cost of the works. If the disabled person is on income support or income-based jobseeker’s allowance, they will not normally have to make a contribution although this will not necessarily be the case if anyone else is being assessed.

If the disabled person’s resources are more than the assessment, then a proportion of their income will be used to calculate the size of loan they can afford to finance the works. This ‘affordable loan’ is then deducted from the cost of the works and grant will be given to cover the remaining cost, if any. Therefore, in practice, the amount of grant is equal to the cost of works minus the ‘affordable loan’.

How do I apply?

Ask at the local housing or environmental health department of your local council. They will also be able to provide an application form. You should do this before you start any of the work. You will not normally get any grant if you start work before the council approve the application. If the work is urgent, you should get in touch with the council and let them know the circumstances. You should ensure that you separately secure any approval for building regulations or planning purposes that is required.

The council will provide you with an application form which will set out the further documentation you will need to support your application. An application is only valid if it is made on the council’s form and if it includes all the information required.

Grant approval: The council must give you a decision in writing within six months of receipt of a completely valid application and of any additional information they may require. In a few cases a local authority may specify a date before which grant is not payable. This will be no later than twelve months from the date on which the application was made.

Grant payment: Grant will only be paid when the council are satisfied that the work has been completed to their satisfaction and in accordance with the grant approval. Note, however, that you are responsible for ensuring that your builder meets the standard you require.

Grant can only be paid on provision of an acceptable invoice, demand or receipt of payment of the works. An invoice is not acceptable if it is for work or services provided by the applicant or a member of his/her family. Where the works are carried out by the applicant or a relative, only invoices for materials or services bought in will be acceptable.

The council may pay the grants in full on completion of the works or by instalments as the works progress.

The council may decide to pay the grant direct to your contractor or provide the instrument of payment in a form made payable to the contractor. If they do so, they must tell you when they approve your application. This should not affect your right to ensure that the contractor has completed the works to your satisfaction. If the contractor has not, you should notify the council so that they can withhold payment, if appropriate.