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What Is a Disabled Facilities Grant and How Do I Apply?

May 2025ยท7 min read

A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a government-funded grant that helps disabled people make essential adaptations to their home. As approved contractors with Basildon and Castle Point Council, we carry out DFG-funded works regularly โ€” here's everything you need to know.

What Does a DFG Cover?

A Disabled Facilities Grant can fund adaptations including:

Wetroom conversions

Converting a bathroom into a level-access wetroom with walk-in shower

Ramps and access

External ramps, widened doorways, and level-access thresholds

Stairlifts

Installation of stairlifts or through-floor lifts

Kitchen adaptations

Lowered worktops, accessible units, and adapted layouts

Extensions

Ground floor bedroom or bathroom extensions for wheelchair users

Heating and electrics

Adapted heating controls, accessible sockets and switches

Who Can Apply?

The applicant must be disabled (as defined by the Act) or have a disabled person living in the property
The property must be the applicant's main residence
Both homeowners and tenants can apply (with landlord consent for tenants)
The grant is means-tested for adults (not for children under 18)
The maximum grant is ยฃ30,000 in England

How to Apply

1. Contact your council

Call your local council's housing or social services team to request an assessment. In our area, that's Basildon Council or Castle Point Council.

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

The council will assess your financial situation to determine how much grant you're eligible for (children are exempt from means testing).

4. Get quotes

The council will ask for quotes from approved contractors. You can request Paul Bailey Construction Ltd as your preferred contractor.

5. Grant approval

Once approved, the council issues the grant and work can begin. The council pays the contractor directly.

Why Choose Paul Bailey Construction?

As approved contractors with Basildon and Castle Point Council, we have extensive experience delivering DFG-funded works. We understand the specific requirements of accessible installations โ€” level-access entry, grab rails, thermostatic controls, non-slip surfaces โ€” and we work sensitively with homeowners and occupational therapists to deliver safe, practical, and attractive spaces.

Council Approved Contractors

We are approved contractors with Basildon and Castle Point Council for disabled grant works including extensions, wetrooms, ramps, and kitchen adaptations.

Need Help With a DFG Application?

We can guide you through the process and deliver the adaptations you need.