What Does 'Council Approved Contractor' Mean — and Why Does It Matter?
When you see a builder described as a 'council approved contractor', it's more than just a badge. It means they've been vetted, approved, and authorised by your local council to carry out specific types of work — often funded through government grant schemes. Here's what it means in practice, and how it could benefit you.
What Is a Council Approved Contractor?
Local councils maintain lists of approved contractors who have been assessed and authorised to carry out works on behalf of the council — typically for grant-funded adaptation and improvement projects. To become approved, contractors must demonstrate their credentials, insurance, experience, and quality standards. It's not something any builder can claim: it requires a formal application and ongoing compliance.
Paul Bailey Construction Ltd — Approved by Two Councils
We are approved contractors with both Basildon Council and Castle Point Council. This authorises us to carry out disabled grant works including extensions, wetrooms, ramps, and kitchen adaptations for residents in both boroughs.
What Works Are Covered?
As approved contractors, we carry out a wide range of disabled adaptation works funded through the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) scheme:
Wetroom conversions
Converting a standard bathroom into a level-access wetroom with walk-in shower, grab rails, and non-slip flooring
Ramps & access
External ramps, widened doorways, and level-access thresholds to improve mobility around the home
Kitchen adaptations
Lowered worktops, accessible units, and adapted layouts for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility
Extensions
Ground floor bedroom or bathroom extensions to provide accessible living space without the need to use stairs
Stairlifts & lifts
Installation of stairlifts or through-floor lifts to enable safe movement between floors
Heating & electrical
Adapted heating controls, accessible sockets and switches positioned for easier reach
Why Does It Matter to You?
The council pays us directly
When works are funded through a Disabled Facilities Grant, the council pays the contractor directly. You don't need to find the money upfront — the grant covers the approved cost of the works.
You can request us by name
Once you've been assessed for a DFG, you can request Paul Bailey Construction Ltd as your preferred contractor. The council will contact us to arrange a survey and quotation.
We understand the requirements
Council-funded adaptations have specific technical requirements — level-access drainage, thermostatic controls, minimum turning circles for wheelchairs, and more. Our team knows these standards inside out.
We work sensitively
Adaptations are often carried out in the homes of elderly or disabled residents. We understand the importance of working considerately, minimising disruption, and communicating clearly throughout.
How to Access Grant-Funded Works
1. Contact your council
Call Basildon Council or Castle Point Council's housing or social services team to request an assessment for a Disabled Facilities Grant.
2. Occupational therapy assessment
An occupational therapist (OT) will visit your home to assess the disabled person's needs and recommend specific adaptations.
3. Means test (adults only)
The council will assess your financial situation to determine how much grant you're eligible for. Children under 18 are exempt from means testing.
4. Request Paul Bailey Construction
Once approved, ask the council to contact us as your preferred contractor. We'll arrange a survey and provide a quotation.
5. Works carried out
Once the grant is approved and the quotation accepted, we carry out the works. The council pays us directly on completion.
Not Eligible for a Grant?
Even if you don't qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant, we can still carry out adaptation works privately. Many homeowners choose to fund adaptations themselves to improve accessibility for an elderly parent, a family member with a disability, or simply to future-proof their home. We provide the same high standard of work regardless of how the project is funded.
Need Adaptations or Accessible Works?
As approved contractors with Basildon and Castle Point Council, we're experienced in delivering grant-funded and private adaptation works across Essex.