A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) can make a huge difference, but not everyone is eligible. Councils must check that the grant is the right solution for both the person and the property.
Here’s a clear guide to the eligibility criteria.
Disability criteria
You may be eligible if the disabled person:
- Has significant sight, hearing, or speech problems
- Has a mental health condition
- Has a substantial and long-term physical disability caused by illness, injury, or impairment
The condition must have more than a minor effect on daily life and last at least a year (or be expected to).
Residency rules
The disabled person must intend to live in the property as their main home for at least five years. This applies whether the applicant is the disabled person, a parent, or a landlord.
Applications can cover:
- Houses, flats, and bungalows
- Qualifying houseboats and caravans
- Shared parts of buildings where the disabled person lives
Who can apply
A DFG can be applied for by:
- Owners (including landlords)
- Tenants (private, social, agricultural, employee)
- Occupants of houseboats or caravans (with the site owner’s permission)
Income and resources
In most adult cases, the applicant must go through a means test (also called the test of resources). This works out how much, if anything, the household must contribute towards the cost.
- Children and young people under 18 are exempt from the means test.
- Certain benefits also mean you won’t be asked to contribute.
- The test looks at income, savings, and household circumstances.
(See our full guide on the DFG means test for details.)
Property condition
The council must be satisfied that the works are practicable in the home. If the dwelling is in very poor condition, or its layout makes the works unsuitable, the grant may be refused or alternatives suggested.
Situations where you may not be eligible
A DFG may be refused or limited if:
- The property is not the applicant’s main home.
- The works are not considered essential for the disabled person’s needs.
- The property condition makes the works impractical.
- Landlord or site owner permission is not granted.
Key points to remember
- Eligibility covers the disabled person, the applicant, the property, and the type of works.
- Disability must have a substantial and long-term effect.
- The home must be the main residence for at least five years.
- Adults may be means tested, but children are exempt.
- Works must be necessary, appropriate, and practicable.
