Improving private housing

We offer a number of grants and loans to assist with bringing a dwelling up to the Decent Homes standard; a summary of our current policy can be downloaded below. Please note that this is subject to occasional change and that grant availability is also variable depending on levels of demand and the amount remaining in the budget; your enquiry will usually be put on a waiting list.

In general grants for owner/occupiers are limited to those on low income; you must also be aged 70 and over or have a disabled member of the household. The current grant maximum is £6,600.

We operate two schemes in partnership with six other councils in South West London: they provide grants for heating/energy efficiency and renovating long-term empty homes. The energy grants are called 'Coldbusters' and our partners, Creative Environmental Networks, manage the project and can be contacted on 0800 358 6668. The empty property grants currently provide up to £15,000 for each dwelling in exchange for nomination rights of 3 years.

We are also a partner in the Houseproud equity release scheme which enables older people to release money from the value of their home in order to carry out improvements. Our Home Improvement Agency will manage the process for you, arranging both a surveyor and approved builder. If you would like more information and a free DVD please call the Home Improvement Trust on 0800 783 7569 or visit their website at www.houseproud.org.uk

Finally, the Disabled Facilities Grant is a mandatory grant with a current maximum of £30,000 and funds disability adaptations to the homes of disabled people. If you have a disability and have difficulty either accessing facilities within your home or getting in and out of the home then please contact the Occupational Therapy Service on 020 8871 6270. They are responsible for assessing whether any works are necessary and appropriate in the first instance.