When you apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG), the council will set out certain rules and conditions. These protect public money and make sure the work is done properly.
Here are the main conditions you should know about.
Using approved contractors
- Grants are usually paid only if you use one of the contractors whose quotes were included in your application.
- If you submitted several quotes, you must choose from those unless the council agrees otherwise.
Specification of works
Even if you provide your own design or plan, the council can add requirements to make sure the work is done safely and to standard.
Charges on properties
- If you own your home and the grant is more than £5,000, the council can place a local land charge.
- If you sell the property within 10 years, you may have to repay some or all of the grant (up to £10,000).
- Councils should consider your situation before asking for repayment, for example:
- if moving for work or health reasons
- if moving to care for someone else
- if repayment would cause financial hardship
Recovery of equipment
If the grant pays for equipment such as a stairlift, the council may want it back if it is no longer needed. In practice, they usually only recover equipment if it is in good condition and can be reused.
Nomination rights for landlords
If a landlord applies for the grant, the council may keep the right to nominate tenants for the property during the grant condition period.
Insurance and legal claims
If you can claim the cost of works through insurance or legal action (for example after an accident), the council may expect repayment of the grant.
Key points to remember
- Councils can set conditions on contractors, specifications, and equipment.
- Homeowners may face a repayment charge if they sell within 10 years.
- Councils usually apply common sense when considering repayment.
- Always read your approval letter carefully – it sets out the exact conditions for your grant.
