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11. Repairing and Improving Occupied Private Housing

Introduction

Councils operate a grant scheme which may help people living in owner-occupied or privately rented housing with some of the costs of having their homes improved, adapted or repaired. There are two main types of grant – Improvement and Repairs. The type of grant available will depend on the kind of work you are planning to carry out. The grant system is administered by the local authorities and they are responsible for all matters relating to the system.

Most grants are discretionary although in a few circumstances the Council must give you a grant. The resources available for this purpose are limited and discretionary grants may not be available in all areas. Conditions apply to the grant for a five-year period after the award has been paid. Local care and repair projects are primarily aimed at disabled and older owner-occupiers on low incomes. Other schemes may offer home insulation and draughtproofing. The schemes cover: