Choose the problem that needs solving first
Get help with a home that is difficult to use
You may already know which alteration you want. Or you may simply know that bathing, stairs or getting through the door has become unsafe. The routes below help you find advice without committing to a product before the difficulty has been properly considered.
If somebody is unsafe today
Call 999 for a serious injury, immediate danger or a medical emergency. If a fall has happened without an obvious injury but the person can't get up, follow local NHS advice and don't try to lift them in a way that may injure either of you. Urgent problems with gas, fire or exposed live electrics need the relevant emergency service or qualified trade, not a home-adaptation assessment.
For an assessment of daily needs
Contact the adult social care department of the local council and ask about a care needs assessment or occupational therapy assessment. Explain the particular tasks that are difficult and mention any planned hospital discharge.
For a disabled child, ask the council which children’s service handles home adaptations. You can also speak to a GP or NHS professional when a health change is contributing to the problem.
For equipment and smaller alterations
The council may provide or recommend certain equipment after assessment. Some areas have handyperson services for small jobs such as rails.
If buying privately, look for suppliers who will assess the person and the home instead of selling from measurements alone. Ask about trials, returns, installation, servicing and what happens if the equipment no longer suits. Never rely on an adhesive or suction fitting where a secure weight-bearing support is needed.
For major building work
Start with a clear functional brief. An occupational therapist can help describe what the finished space must allow. Depending on the job, you may also need an architect, architectural technologist, surveyor, structural engineer or specialist adaptation contractor.
Find out who handles planning, building regulations, drainage, electrics and making good. Obtain comparable written quotations and check insurance, references and the proposed payment schedule.
For funding and rights
Ask the council about Disabled Facilities Grants and any local schemes before work begins. Citizens Advice can help with consumer rights, benefits and housing questions. Tenants should involve their landlord or housing association early, particularly where structural work or shared areas are involved. If a firm uses pressure selling, won't leave a written quotation or asks for an unusually large cash payment, step back and take advice.
Trusted UK information
These organisations provide current information and routes to further help.