The information on this page is presented in the format of frequently asked questions. Please click a question from the index below to see the appropriate answer.
What is a home repair assistance grant?
These are minor works grants that are provided to improve the condition of properties which are unfit, unsafe, unhealthy or unsuitable.
If your home is in need of repair our private sector housing team may be able to offer you a grant. Please ring 01753 875264.
How do I apply for a home improvement grant?
Make an enquiry to Private Sector Housing. They will also be able to provide you with an application form. You will not be offered grant assistance if you start work before the Council approves your application.
An application is only valid if it is made on the form provided by the local authority for the purposes and if it includes all the information required.
Private Sector Housing will notify you of the outcome of your application no later than six months from its receipt. You should ensure that you separately secure any approval for building regulations or planning purposes that is required. However the agency can arrange all this on your behalf.
Please note if you have a mortgage you are responsible for informing your mortgage company and for increasing your insurance’s as appropriate after the works are started.
What should I do before applying for assistance from a home improvement grant?
You should find out the extent and type of work which is necessary, and the likely cost. Whether or not the work is grant aided, it is important to ensure that the work gets done properly and at a reasonable price. For major works it may be best to employ a qualified architect or surveyor to plan and oversee the work in progress.
It is a good idea to get advice from a qualified person when considering the need to carry out any works to your property. You should also consider how best to meet any additional costs. In looking at possible options, advice may be sought from private sector housing or social services.
How is the home improvement grant calculated?
On receiving the estimates your case officer will check them to ensure that all items specified have been quoted for and that there have been no additions to the specification. The officer will then select the lowest estimate and assess the estimated cost for each item.
If it is considered that any item has been given an unacceptably high price the officer will set a reasonable price for that item using current building costs. The grant is then calculated based upon a percentage of the amount of expense, which is properly to be incurred in the execution of the eligible works. The percentage rate will vary depending upon the type of grant applied for.
How long will it take for my home improvement grant application to be approved?
The Council is required to approve or refuse your application within 6 months. However, in practice, it should take a matter of weeks from the time a valid application is made.
When will I be paid the home improvement grant?
When all the works specified have been completed to the satisfaction of your case officer and you have supplied all the necessary invoices, payment will usually be made within a few weeks.
Who is responsible for the workmanship of the contractor carrying out the home improvements?
If at any time during the course of the works or on completion of contracted works you are not satisfied with the standard of workmanship, you should raise the matter with the contractor and notify the council as soon as possible.
How long do I have to carry out the home improvement work specified?
You have (1) one year, from the date on which your grant application is approved, to complete the work in full to the satisfaction of your case officer – except when a notice is in.
For all enquiries please contact the Customer Service Centre
01753 475111
My Council
Landmark Place
High Street
Slough
opposite Slough Library
This symbol indicates a link will take you outside this website. Links will open in a new browser window.
