What types of work can be done?
Aids and adaptations can include grab rails, hand rails, lever taps, easier-to-use door handles, locks or light fittings. More extensive works such as stairlifts or adapting bathrooms or kitchens are usually done by the Council but RHP has to give permission for the changes to your home.
We always support you as much as we can. However, sometimes we will not be able to allow changes to your home which would make it less suitable for future customers. So, for example, we might not approve the installation of a walk-in shower room for a single person in a family home. However, we would work with you to find you a more suitable home that better meets your needs.
How do I get something changed or installed?
To find out the best route of support please speak to your Customer Advisor (CA) by calling us on Freephone 0800 0322 433. We will be able to help you to decide whether the changes you need can be managed by RHP or whether you need to speak with the Council or your GP.
What happens if the changes I need are small?
If the work that you need is small, RHP will arrange the work through its own maintenance team. Usually this will involve your CA agreeing (involving an occupational therapist if necessary) and then arranging for the work to be done. Sometimes our maintenance team may inspect the property before the work is organized. You will be given a specific timescale and date for works to be done.
What happens if the changes I need are more major?
If you need more extensive or complex work, this will require:
- An assessment by an occupational therapist
- An application for a Disabled Facilities Grant to the local authority
- We can help you to identify the right person to contact. Your CA will gladly help you to fill in the forms.
Who decides whether I can have the work I think I need?
For small works, RHP will decide. For more major works requiring a Disabled Facilities Grant, the local authority will decide. Where it agrees that work should be done, it will give you an idea of when it will be able to fund the works.
Will RHP give permission for the works?
We want to help you to live happily and safely in your home. We will only refuse works where they would damage the building or make it less easy for others (including future customers) to use. Where we do refuse works, we will make sure that your CA visits you to agree how we can meet your needs more effectively in another property.
Who looks after the adaptation once it has been done?
RHP will normally maintain any adaptation. So, for example, if we have put in lever taps we would repair and renew them in the normal way. However in a very small number of cases (for example, the maintenance of a stairlift), you may need to contribute to the cost through a service charge. Your CA will let you know if this is the case.