Self Help Grant
Local authorities may provide financial support to social housing tenants to carry out improvement works to their homes.
Who can apply?
Local authority tenants who want to make improvements to their home may be able to apply for this grant. To be eligible the rent for the property must be up to date.
If the grant application is awarded, the tenant is normally responsible for then organising the work themselves and paying for it up front. When the work is complete the local authority may make an inspection of the work before making payment to the tenant.
How much is available?
The amount available may cover a proportion of the costs of the works, but it won't cover all the costs.
The amount available may also vary depending on take-up of the scheme in the local authority area, and it may vary by year. Check with your local authority for guidelines before applying.
What can the funding be used for?
Both internal and external works may be covered by this scheme. Examples include painting and decorating, insulation, upgrading of windows and doors.
As each local authority manages supports for tenants separately, the conditions attached to the grant may vary. Check with your local authority for details.
How to apply?
Contact the housing department at your local authority for details of availability of this grant in your area.