Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)

The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a means-tested grant provided by local councils in England to assist with the cost of essential home adaptations for disabled individuals, enabling them to live more independently.

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Updated Government Guidence

Widening doors and installing ramps or grab rails
Improving access to rooms and facilities, for example with a stair lift or level access shower
Improving access to your garden
Building an extension, for example a downstairs bedroom
Providing a heating system suitable for your needs
Adapting heating or lighting controls to make them easier to use

A DFG won't affect any benefits you receive.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a DFG, the following criteria must be met:

You or someone living in the property must be disabled.
You must intend to live in the property during the grant period (usually 5 years).
You can be a homeowner, private tenant, housing association tenant, or landlord with a disabled tenant.
The proposed adaptations must be necessary and appropriate to meet the disabled person's needs.
The work must be reasonable and can be done, depending on the age and condition of the property.

An assessment by an occupational therapist or trained assessor is typically required to determine the necessary adaptations.

Means Testing and Grant Amounts

The amount of grant awarded depends on

Your household income
Your household savings over £6,000

For disabled children under 18, the parents' income isn't taken into account. Landlords can receive a grant without their income and savings being considered.

The maximum grant amounts are:

England: up to £30,000 per applicant
Wales: up to £36,000 per applicant
Northern Ireland: up to £25,000 per applicant

Councils can provide additional funding if set out in local policies.

Application Process

Initial Contact: Reach out to your local council to express interest in applying for a DFG.
Assessment: An occupational therapist or trained assessor will evaluate the needs of the disabled person and recommend necessary adaptations.
Application Submission: Complete and submit the application form provided by the council.
Approval and Implementation: Upon approval, the adaptations should be completed within 12 months.

The council must provide a decision within 6 months of receiving a valid application.

Repayment Conditions

While DFGs typically do not require repayment, some councils may place a local land charge on the property if the grant exceeds £5,000. If the property is sold within 10 years, a portion of the grant may need to be repaid. This policy varies by council.

Additional Support

If you're not eligible for a DFG, consider exploring other funding sources:

For more detailed information or assistance with the application process, please contact your local council or visit gov.uk/disabled-facilities-grants.

Note: This information is based on resources provided by the UK government. For the most current and detailed guidance, always consult your local authority.