Free home renovation grants offered by local councils to private owners

Local authorities are able to fund the repair or adaptation of privately owned or rented homes if certain criteria apply.

November 2010

Your local council has an obligation to make sure your home is habitable if you fit certain criteria. Local authorities are able to fund the repair or adaptation of privately owned or rented homes, if you are over 70, or disabled, or qualify for higher rate Child Tax Credit or other benefits. Local authority websites have contact details and downloadable forms for you to apply and check whether you are eligible for help.

There should always be an agreement in place with your local council before any works are undertaken. After application, you will be expected to supply quotes from 3 builders for each job required. If several different trades, such as carpentry, roofing, plumbing, are involved, you will need to locate 3 tradespersons for each trade.

Some companies will cover all these trades in one, and may make the gathering of quotes a little easier.

The sorts of jobs they can authorise include, insulation, re-roofing, window and door repairs/locks, heating and plumbing, damp treatment, security lighting, adaptation for disability. Please use the links below.

Islington Council housing grants. http://www.islington.gov.uk/Housing/PrivateHousing/housinggrants.asp

Hackney Council housing grants. http://www.hackney.gov.uk/h-renovation-grants-for-owner-occupiers-and-private-tenants.htm

Camden Council housing grants. http://www.camden.gov.uk/ccm/content/housing/information-on-private-sector-housing/housing-renewal-assistance-grants-and-loans/introduction-to-housing-grants-and-loans.en