Disabled Facilities Grant 2026 — Complete UK Guide
How to apply, eligibility rules, amounts, what it covers, and how to avoid common application mistakes.
Contents
What Is the Disabled Facilities Grant?
The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a government grant administered by local councils in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It is designed to fund essential adaptations to the home of a disabled person, enabling them to continue living there safely and independently.
The DFG is a mandatory grant — meaning your local council is legally required to assess your application and fund eligible works if you meet the criteria. They cannot simply refuse to consider it.
Who Is Eligible?
You may be eligible for a DFG if:
You or a household member has a disability
This includes physical disability, learning disability, sensory impairment, or a long-term health condition affecting daily living.
The adaptation is necessary and appropriate
An occupational therapist must confirm the adaptation meets the person's specific needs.
The work is reasonable and practical
The adaptation must be feasible given the age and condition of the property.
You own or rent the property
Both owner-occupiers and tenants can apply. Tenants need their landlord's written consent.
How Much Can You Get?
| Region | Maximum grant |
|---|---|
| England | £30,000 |
| Wales | £36,000 |
| Northern Ireland | Contact your Housing Executive |
| Scotland | Separate scheme — contact your council |
The actual amount you receive depends on the means test. Some applicants receive the full amount; others may need to contribute toward the cost.
What Does the DFG Cover?
Means Testing Explained
The DFG is means-tested, which means the amount you receive depends on your income and savings. The council calculates your "assessed contribution" — the amount they expect you to contribute.
Who is NOT means tested:
- →Children under 18
- →Adults receiving certain means-tested benefits (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction)
If you are on qualifying benefits, you are typically entitled to the full grant amount up to the maximum. If you have savings above £6,000 (£10,000 if pension age), these may reduce your grant.
How to Apply
Contact your local council
Start by calling or emailing your local authority's housing or adult social care team. They will explain the process and often refer you to an occupational therapist.
Occupational therapist assessment
A council OT will visit your home and assess what adaptations are necessary and appropriate. This report forms the basis of your application.
Obtain quotes
Get at least two or three quotes from approved contractors. Your council may have a list of approved suppliers, or you can use the MobilityVerified directory.
Submit your application
Your council will provide the application form. You will need the OT report, quotes, proof of disability, and financial information for the means test.
Await decision
The council must decide within 6 months. If approved, work can begin. Payment goes directly to the contractor in most cases.
Tips for a Successful Application
Apply early — waiting lists for OT assessments can be long. Start the process as soon as you identify a need.
Do not start any work before approval — even if you pay for it yourself first, you will be ineligible.
Use a verified, accredited installer for your quotes — councils look more favourably on quotes from recognised businesses.
Keep records of everything — all correspondence, assessments, and quotes should be stored safely.
If refused, you can appeal — the council must give written reasons for any refusal.
Ask about local top-up schemes — many councils offer additional discretionary funding on top of the DFG maximum.
Find Your Local DFG Guide
We have created grant guides for over 188 local councils across England and Wales — including eligibility details, application contacts, and local top-up schemes.
Find your council guide →Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Disabled Facilities Grant in 2026?+
In England the maximum DFG is £30,000. In Wales it is £36,000. In Scotland and Northern Ireland equivalent schemes have different maximum amounts.
Am I eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant?+
You may be eligible if you or someone in your household has a disability and the adaptation is necessary to meet their needs. The grant is means-tested, so your income and savings affect the amount awarded.
How long does a DFG application take?+
Local authorities must decide on a DFG application within 6 months of receiving it. In practice many decisions take 3–6 months. Complex cases involving building work can take longer.
Can I apply for a DFG if I rent?+
Yes. Tenants can apply for a DFG. You will need your landlord's permission for the adaptation work. The grant is awarded to you personally, not to the property.