Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)

What is the Disabled Facilities Grant?

The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a national scheme that provides financial assistance to eligible households in England for home adaptations that make everyday living easier for people with disabilities. The grant is administered by local authorities and is intended for permanent, not temporary, modifications.

Who can apply?

Eligibility is based on the applicants age and the severity of their disability:

• People under 60 must have a disability that makes it practically impossible for them to use their home safely and comfortably without adaptations.
• People 60 or over must have a disability that makes it very difficult for them to use their home safely and comfortably without adaptations.

Both the applicant and the local authority must agree that the proposed works are necessary. The process involves an assessment by an occupational therapist or qualified assessor.

What types of adaptations are covered?

The grant can fund a wide range of structural changes, including but not limited to:

1. Installation of ramps, stair lifts, or platform lifts.
2. Widening of doorways and hallways.
3. Adapted bathrooms level access showers, grab rails, lowered sinks, and accessible toilets.
4. Alterations to kitchens lower countertops, accessible appliances, and wheelchairfriendly layouts.
5. Improved lighting, handrails, and antislip flooring.

How much money can be awarded?

The maximum amount varies by local authority, but the national guidance sets a ceiling of 30,000 for most households. In some cases, especially where the property is severely unsuitable, the amount can be increased after a detailed justification.

Steps to apply for a DFG

1. Contact your local council start by calling the DFG department or visiting the councils website to request an application form.
2. Complete the form provide details about the disability, the applicants age, and a brief description of the required adaptations.
3. Assessment a qualified assessor will visit the property to determine what alterations are needed and whether they are reasonable.
4. Quote collection obtain at least two written quotes from registered contractors.
5. Submit documentation send the completed application, assessment report, and contractor quotes back to the council.
6. Decision the council will notify you of the approved amount and any conditions attached to the grant.
7. Work commencement once you accept the terms, the contractor can begin the works. The council may pay the contractor directly or reimburse you after the job is completed, depending on the local authoritys policy.

Key points to remember

• Only permanent adaptations are eligible; temporary measures (e.g., portable ramps) are not funded.
• The grant covers the cost of the works, but not the cost of any required planning permission or structural surveys that are unrelated to the adaptation.
• If you own the property, you will be liable for any maintenance after the work is completed.
• Landlords can apply on behalf of a tenant, but the adaptation must be agreed to by both parties and documented in the tenancy agreement.
• The DFG is not a loan you will not have to repay the money, even if you later move out of the home.

Common reasons for application failure

Applications are declined when:

• The disability does not meet the practically impossible or very difficult threshold.
• The proposed works are not considered reasonable or proportionate to the applicants needs.
• Insufficient evidence is provided (e.g., lack of medical documentation or incomplete quotes).
• The property is already unsuitable for adaptation (e.g., structural limitations that cannot be overcome within the grant limit).

Alternative sources of funding

If the DFG does not cover the full cost, consider these options:

• Attendance Allowance a nonmeanstested benefit for people over 65 with a disability.
• Motability Scheme may provide support for vehicle adaptations that complement home changes.
• Charitable grants many charities offer equipment or building grants for disabled people.
• Local welfare assistance some councils have additional discretionary funds for urgent adaptations.

Useful links

Government guidance on the Disabled Facilities Grant
NHS information on disability and health
Citizens Advice advice on DFG and other benefits

Conclusion

The Disabled Facilities Grant is a vital resource designed to remove barriers within the home and enable people with disabilities to live safely, independently, and with dignity. Understanding the eligibility criteria, the types of adaptations covered, and the application process will help you secure the support you need. Start by contacting your local council, gather the required documentation, and take the first step toward a more accessible living environment.