Adaptations

Adaptations

Adaptations are things we can do to make your home more accessible and comfortable for you. E.g. handrails, ramps, level access showers. 

Eligibility

You are one of the following:

  • A B3Living tenant, leaseholder or shared owner. 
  • A partner or immediate family member, registered as a permanent resident in a B3Living property. 

You have a disability that:

  • Significantly affects your ability to carry out daily activities or access essential facilities in your home (e.g. bathroom). 

And:

  • The proposed adaptations will help meet your long-term housing needs
  • If you are over 18 and not named on the tenancy or lease, we'll need proof of residency for at least 12 months.

How do I apply?

Step 1: Arrange an appointment with an Occupational Therapist (OT) through Hertfordshire Adult Services. Their number is 0300 123 4042.

Step 2: The OT will look around your home and decide what adaptations you need.

Step 3: Once we receive the report, we'll make sure the works are suitable for the home (e.g. the walls can bear the weight for a stairlift). 

Step 4: We will then arrange for the works to be carried out.

Note: Larger adaptations may be carried out through a waiting list by the Home Improvement Agency. 

We might not look into adaptations if:

  • It's not your main home and you have a tenancy elsewhere.
  • Not the main home of the child (if for a child). 
  • You're waiting for a medical procedure that'll improve your ability to live independently.
  • You're on a starter tenancy (may do minor works in some cases)
  • Going through right to buy application, mutual exchange or transfer.
  • Have an empty bedroom or under-occupying
  • Asking for an extension

However, we'll continue to consider each case individually. 

Maybe - but don’t worry, we can help!

Once you've had a visit from an OT, we will review the request and decide how it can be funded. There are a few possibilities:

  • B3Living might cover the cost from our yearly budget (if there’s enough money left).
  • You might be asked to apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) — this is government funding that helps pay for home adaptations. It’s means-tested, so it depends on your household income.
  • In some cases, charities or the NHS might help, especially in emergencies.
  • Even if your family wants to pay for the work themselves, you still need permission from B3Living before anything can happen.

If you own your home, we won't cover the cost with our adaptations budget. However, we will support you in making funding applications when needed. 

Possibly - depending on what adaptations you have.

  • If the adaptation results in an additional bedroom (e.g. converting a living space into a bedroom), your rent may be reviewed and potentially increased.
  • If the adaptation involves installing equipment that needs regular maintenance (like a stairlift), a service charge may be introduced.
  • You will be informed beforehand of any changes to your rent, and your written consent will be required before any work is done.

We understand that any increase in rent / service charge can be a concern. That's why we'll always work with you to make sure you get the financial support you're entitled to. 

Yes - you can install adaptations and make modifications to your home once we've given permission. You can contact us to request permission.  

No – we will only go based on what the OT has recommended, as their guidance reflects the most appropriate course of action.

If a home with the right facilities comes up, this option may be explored with the customer. However, this is not always an option for all customers. 

 

Have a question? 

We know it can get confusing when requesting adaptations, but don't worry. We're here to help you get the support you need. 

Whether you're thinking about adaptations or have just had your OT assessment, we're always available to speak to. 

Phone: 01992 453700 (option 2)

Email: repairs@b3living.org.uk

Online: Live chat support

Related Links

Our adaptations policy
Report a repair