Grants for Property Repairs and Maintenance

Financial Help for Property Repairs and Maintenance

Every property needs work from time to time. Whether it is fixing a leaking roof, replacing old windows, or upgrading insulation, repairs and maintenance are part of home ownership.

The problem is cost. Even relatively minor repairs can run into hundreds of pounds, and larger jobs such as roof work or damp treatment can cost thousands. For people on low incomes, older homeowners, or those with disabilities, finding the money for essential repairs can feel impossible.

There are several grants and schemes available to assist with repair costs. Some are provided by local councils, others by national programmes, and some through charitable organisations. Eligibility and availability vary depending on where you live, your circumstances, and the type of work needed.

Local Authority Grants and Assistance

Local councils in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland can offer different types of help with property repairs. The exact schemes available depend on your council, as each authority sets its own policies and budgets.

One common form of support is through Home Improvement Agencies, sometimes called Care and Repair services or Staying Put schemes. These agencies work with councils to help older people, disabled people, and those on low incomes to repair and adapt their homes. They can assist with everything from essential repairs like fixing dangerous flooring or faulty electrics to energy efficiency measures such as loft insulation. Age UK can also provide advice and support for older adults seeking help with home repairs.

To qualify for help through these agencies, you will usually need to be a homeowner. Private landlords may also be eligible in certain areas.

Many local authority schemes are means tested, particularly those related to home improvement and repairs. Councils have limited budgets and will typically prioritise those with the greatest need. This usually means people on low incomes who cannot afford to make essential repairs, particularly where the property poses a safety risk.

Contact your local council directly to find out what schemes they run in your area. The Housing Care website maintains a directory of Home Improvement Agencies across the UK, which can help you locate services near you.

Grant Eligibility Finder

Tell us what you need funding for and we will match you with the types of UK grant most likely to accept your application.

Try our Grant Eligibility Finder free, here on this site →

Disabled Facilities Grants

If you or someone in your household has a disability, you may be able to apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant. This is a government funded grant available through local councils to help adapt homes for disabled residents.

The grant can cover a range of work, including widening doors, installing ramps, adapting bathrooms, improving heating systems, and making other changes that help a disabled person live more independently at home. In some cases, it can also cover repairs that are directly linked to the adaptation work.

Disabled Facilities Grants are means tested for adults, though grants for children are not subject to a financial assessment. The maximum grant in England is set by central government, and you should check GOV.UK for the most up to date figures as these amounts can change. Different rules and amounts may apply in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Applications are made through your local council. An occupational therapist will usually assess the property and the needs of the disabled person before the council decides whether to approve the grant.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Energy Efficiency Schemes

Some repair and maintenance work overlaps with energy efficiency improvements. If your home needs better insulation, a new boiler, or draught proofing, you may be able to get help through energy efficiency programmes rather than traditional repair grants.

The Energy Company Obligation scheme requires large energy suppliers to fund improvements in certain households. This can include loft and cavity wall insulation, boiler replacements, and heating controls. Not every household will qualify, as eligibility is usually based on receiving certain benefits or living in a low income area, and the criteria change periodically.

Other government insulation schemes may also be available, though these programmes are sometimes rebranded or replaced. Check GOV.UK for the current schemes operating in your area and their specific eligibility requirements.

Your energy supplier can tell you what help is available, and the Simple Energy Advice service provides free guidance on available support. If you are unfamiliar with using online services, your local library or Citizens Advice bureau can often help you access these resources.

Other Sources of Help

Beyond council schemes and energy programmes, other options may be available depending on your situation.

Some homeowners, particularly older people, consider equity release as a way to fund repairs. This involves releasing money tied up in the value of your home, either through a lifetime mortgage or a home reversion plan. Equity release carries significant risks and long term implications for your finances and any inheritance you wish to leave. You should always seek independent financial advice and carefully consider alternatives before proceeding.

Charitable organisations sometimes offer grants or interest free loans for home repairs. This is more common for older people, disabled people, or those in particular circumstances such as veterans or people with specific health conditions. Turn2us maintains a database of charitable grants that can help you identify potential sources of support.

If you rent your home, your landlord is generally responsible for most repairs, including structural work, heating systems, and sanitation. This is a legal requirement under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. If your landlord is not carrying out necessary repairs, Citizens Advice can help clarify your rights and explain how to pursue the matter.

Whatever your situation, starting with your local council is usually the best first step. They can explain what help is available in your area and point you towards other organisations that may be able to assist.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Grant Eligibility Finder lets you tell us what you need funding for and we will match you with the types of UK grant most likely to accept your application. Try it now →