Guides

There are 5 key stages of delivering a home adaptation.

• Stage 0: first contact with services
• Stage 1: first contact to assessment and identification of the relevant works;
• Stage 2: identification of the relevant works to submission of the formal grant application
• Stage 3: grant application to grant approval
• Stage 4: approval of grant to completion of works.

Good design is at the heart of successful home adaptations. Whether it’s a level-access shower, an access ramp, or a carefully planned extension, the quality of the design directly impacts how well the adaptation meets the needs of the person using it.

Good design is about more than just function—it’s about creating spaces that are safe, practical, and comfortable while maintaining the dignity and independence of the individual. For example, a poorly designed ramp may technically “work,” but if it’s too steep or awkward to navigate, it becomes a daily frustration rather than a solution. Similarly, an accessible shower that feels clinical or cramped can detract from the experience of feeling at home.

By focusing on thoughtful, user-centred design, we can ensure that adaptations not only solve practical challenges but also enhance everyday life. This means considering the small details—like door positioning to maximise space, natural light to improve comfort, and materials that blend seamlessly with the existing home.

Ultimately, good design transforms adaptations from being just ‘functional’ to being spaces that people enjoy and value—places that are truly liveable.

Running a successful Home Improvement Agency (HIA) involves balancing operational efficiency with a strong focus on supporting individuals to live safely and independently at home. This set of resources has been designed to provide practical guidance for managers, team leaders, and frontline staff working across a range of HIA services.

Whether you’re setting up a handyperson service, coordinating a hospital discharge programme, or supporting clients with more complex needs—such as hoarding or help to move services—these guides offer clear, actionable advice to help you deliver effective, high-quality services.

We also include targeted support for caseworkers, who play a critical role in assessing needs and ensuring clients receive the right assistance, as well as guidance on navigating financial considerations such as VAT and tax regulations specific to HIAs.

By following these resources, you’ll gain the tools and insights needed to streamline processes, improve service delivery, and ensure your agency makes a real difference to the lives of those you support.

This collection of resources has been specifically developed for Technical Officers working in Home Improvement Agencies to support their essential role in delivering safe, compliant, and effective home adaptations and repairs. Whether you’re overseeing works, managing contractors, or navigating complex regulations, this section provides the tools and knowledge you need to ensure every project meets the highest professional standards.

Working on home adaptations brings with it a wide range of responsibilities—from identifying hazards like asbestos, damp and mould, or legionella, to ensuring that homes remain warm, dry, and safe for residents. Regulations such as the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS) provide a framework for identifying risks to health and safety, while the Construction Design & Management Regulations (CDM) guide you in managing risks during the construction process.

At the same time, Technical Officers must stay up to date with other essential requirements, such as Building Regulations, Gas Regulations, and the Party Wall Act.

This set of guides has been designed to help you navigate these challenges with confidence, providing clear, practical advice on key topics. Whether you’re tackling cold homes, managing contractors on-site, or planning for sustainability, these resources are here to support your decision-making and help you deliver successful projects that improve lives.

Effective commissioning and policy development are key to delivering home improvement services that make a real difference to people’s lives. These guides provide practical support for commissioners and policy makers, helping you design and implement services that are both impactful and sustainable.

From commissioning a home improvement agency to developing a robust Housing Assistance Policy—complete with a ready-to-use policy template—these resources offer clear, actionable advice to support strategic decision-making.