Home improvement agencies assist vulnerable homeowners and private sector tenants who are older, disabled or on a low income to repair, improve, maintain or adapt their homes. They are local, not-for-profit organisations.
There are approximately 210 home improvement agencies in England, and around 85% of residents in England have access to a home improvement agency. They are sometimes known as care & repair or staying put schemes.
Every home improvement agency provides a range of services depending on the needs of the local community. Their services can include some or all of the following.
Providing a list of reliable local builders and contractors
Visiting you at home to give advice about any problems you have with the condition of your home
Setting out your housing options and helping you decide which is best for you
Helping you obtain other local support services
Checking whether you are entitled to any financial help (for example, disability benefits, or money to help you repair or adapt your home)
Helping with any work you decide to have carried out on your home. For example, drawing up plans, getting estimates and liaising with others involved in the work, such as council grants officers and occupational therapists
Additional services such as a handyperson services, to carry out small jobs around your home, help with gardening, or coming home from hospital
Helping to make your home more energy-efficient.
For some examples of how home improvement agencies can help, read our case studies.
The first visit and advice is free. Most home improvement agencies charge a fee if you decide to go ahead with any work using their assistance, which can normally be included with any grant you are eligible for. It is your decision whether you want the home improvement agency to help, and any costs will be discussed and agreed with you first.
To find your nearest home improvement agency, use our search tool or phone Foundations on 0845 8645210.
Foundations is appointed by the government as the national body for home improvement agencies in England. We provide a directory of home improvement agencies across the country. For more information about Foundations, click here.
