Applying for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) can feel daunting, but the process is simpler once you know the steps. This is the typical process, though your local authority may do things a little differently.
Step 1. Contact Social Services
Most people start by contacting their local council’s social services department. Ask to speak to the occupational therapy (OT) team about a Disabled Facilities Grant.
- Explain your situation and the difficulties you’re facing at home.
- Social services will usually arrange for an OT assessment.
Step 2. Occupational Therapist Assessment
An OT will visit your home to:
- Assess the daily living difficulties you face.
- Discuss possible adaptations that could help.
- Recommend whether a DFG is suitable.
Step 3. Housing Team Decision
Your council’s housing team manages the grant. They will check:
- If the OT’s recommendations are necessary and appropriate.
- Whether the work is reasonable and practicable for your property.
- Whether you qualify under the financial test (means test).
Step 4. The Application
The housing team will guide you through the formal application. This usually includes:
- Proof of ownership, tenancy, or landlord permission.
- Evidence of income, savings, and benefits.
- Quotes and details of the proposed work.
Step 5. Council Decision
By law, the council must decide within 6 months of receiving a completed application.
- If approved: You’ll get an approval letter setting out the work, the grant amount, and any contribution you must pay.
- If refused: The council must explain why. You can ask for a review or make a complaint.
Step 6. Getting the Work Done
Work usually starts once approval is given.
- In some areas the council arranges contractors for you.
- In others, you may choose a contractor yourself.
- Never start work before the grant is approved, or you may not get the funding.
Step 7. Completion and Payment
After the work is finished:
- The council checks it meets the agreed specification.
- The grant is paid directly to the contractor, or reimbursed to you if you paid.
- If special equipment (like a stairlift) is no longer needed in future, the council may ask for it back.
A Worked Example Timeline
Here’s how the process might look in practice:
- January: John contacts social services.
- February: An OT visits to assess his needs.
- March: The housing team confirms the adaptations are suitable and starts the application paperwork.
- April: Quotes are gathered, and John provides financial details.
- May: The application is submitted in full.
- July: The council makes a decision within the 6-month legal timescale.
- August: Work begins on John’s new level-access shower.
- September: Work is completed, inspected, and paid.
This is a typical timeline — but depending on your local authority, things may move faster or slower.
Tips to make the process smoother
- Apply as soon as possible – waiting lists can be long.
- Keep paperwork safe, including benefit evidence.
- Talk to your landlord early if you rent.
- Ask questions if anything is unclear – councils must explain conditions.
- Don’t start work until you have written approval.
Key points to remember
- Always begin by contacting your council’s housing team.
- An OT will usually be involved in the assessment.
- Adults may face a means test, children do not.
- You must have a grant approval letter before starting work.
- Councils can take time to process applications – plan ahead.
