How To · May 2026
How to Get a Disabled Facilities Grant for a Bathroom
A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) can fund bathroom adaptations including wet rooms, walk-in showers, grab rails and accessible WCs. This guide explains how to apply, who is eligible and how long it takes.
What Is a Disabled Facilities Grant?
A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a means-tested government grant to help disabled people adapt their home so they can continue to live independently. Grants are administered by local councils in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (in Scotland the scheme is called the Care and Repair Grant).
For bathrooms, a DFG can fund: wet rooms and level-access showers, grab rails and handrails, accessible wash basins and WCs, bath hoists, walk-in baths, and door-widening for wheelchair access.
Maximum grant: £30,000 in England; £36,000 in Wales; £25,000 in Northern Ireland.
Who Is Eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant?
You may be eligible if:
- You or a family member living in the property has a disability
- You own and live in the property, or are a private or housing association tenant
- The adaptations are necessary and appropriate to meet the disabled person's needs
- The adaptations are reasonable and practicable given the property
DFGs are means-tested for adults. Children's DFGs are not means-tested. Your council will assess your financial contribution based on income and savings.
How to Apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant
- 1Contact your council's housing or occupational therapy team
Start by calling or emailing your local council. Ask for a home assessment by an Occupational Therapist (OT). The OT assessment is free and determines what adaptations are needed.
- 2Occupational Therapist assessment
An OT will visit your home and produce a report recommending specific adaptations. This report supports your DFG application. The OT may also suggest equipment (grab rails, raised toilet seats) that can be provided free without a grant.
- 3Submit your DFG application
Your council will provide the application form. You'll need the OT report, proof of income (for means-test), and two or three builder quotes for the work. Some councils have preferred builders or can recommend approved contractors.
- 4Wait for approval
Councils must make a decision within 6 months of a complete application in England. Processing times vary — some councils are faster. You may be able to request an urgent decision if your need is critical.
- 5Work begins and grant is paid
Once approved, work can start. The grant is usually paid directly to the builder on completion, or in stages for larger projects. Do not start work before grant approval or you may lose eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Disabled Facilities Grant take?
Councils must decide within 6 months of a complete application in England. However, OT waiting lists and processing delays mean the total process (from first contact to work starting) often takes 6–18 months in practice. Contact your council early.
Can I get a DFG as a private tenant?
Yes. Private tenants can apply for a DFG, but you will need your landlord's written permission for the adaptations. Your council will contact your landlord as part of the process.
What is the means test for a Disabled Facilities Grant?
For adults, the DFG means test assesses your income and savings against what the adaptation is expected to cost. If your means-tested contribution equals or exceeds the cost, you won't receive a grant. The means test is calculated using a government formula. Children's grants are not means-tested.
Can I top up a Disabled Facilities Grant?
Yes. If the adaptation costs more than your DFG entitlement, you can fund the difference yourself, through a disabled facilities improvement loan, or via charity funding (such as the Turn2us or the Care and Repair charity). Some councils also have discretionary top-up funds.
What is the difference between a DFG and an Occupational Therapy grant?
An Occupational Therapist (OT) assesses what adaptations are needed and produces a recommendation report. The DFG is the grant that funds the work recommended by the OT. You cannot normally apply for a DFG without an OT report.
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