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Check what kind of improvements you can make

The kind of improvements you can make to your council property depends on the type of tenancy you have.

Introductory tenancies – new council tenants

If you have an introductory tenancy (normally lasting 12 months), the types of improvements you can do are limited. For example, you:

• can do minor improvements – like redecorating the inside of your property or fitting smoke alarms
  
• can’t normally carry out larger projects – like fitting a new bath

Secure tenants

If you’re a secure tenant, you have the right to carry out improvements to your property. Examples of improvements you should be able to do include:

• new bathroom or kitchen
  
• an extension
  
• putting up a garden shed or greenhouse
  
• installing a new gas fire or fireplace
  
• cavity wall insulation
  
• redecorating the outside of your house
  
• fitting an aerial or satellite dish

• Introductory council tenancies - new council tenants

• Secure council tenancies

Get written permission from your council

You might need your council’s written permission to make improvements; it depends on the type of work you want to carry out. You don’t normally need your council’s permission for minor changes like putting up shelves, laying a carpet or draught-proofing doors and windows.

Check with your council before you carry out any work otherwise they can make you change the property back to its original condition.

• Apply for permission to alter your council home Opens new window

Make sure the work is done properly

As well as getting written permission from your council (if it is needed) you’re also responsible for:

• getting planning permission if it's needed – this must be done before work begins
  
• getting building regulations approval if it’s needed – this must be done before the work begins
  
• making sure the work is carried out by a qualified person
  
• paying the costs of getting any approval that you need
  

See the link ‘Repairs, planning and building regulations’ for information on how and when to apply for planning permission or building regulations approval.
Your council has the right to inspect any work that you have done.

• Repairs, planning and building regulations

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Get help with the cost of improvements

You may be able to claim compensation from your council for improvements that you have carried out and paid for. The maximum you can claim is up to £3,000. If your council agrees to pay you compensation, you can only claim it when your tenancy ends.

If you’re moving into a council property you may be able to get a decoration allowance. For example, vouchers you can exchange for goods (like paint and brushes) in your local DIY store.

Contact your council for more information about compensation and decoration allowances.

• Apply for decoration allowance Opens new window

• Find your local council Opens new window

• Greener DIY (environment and greener living)

If you, or someone who lives with you, is disabled

If you, or someone who lives with you, is disabled you may be able to apply to your council for:

• a Disabled Facilities Grant – this can help towards the cost of adapting your home so you can continue to live there
  
• extra support – for example, low cost loans or grants to help renovate, repair or adapt your home

• Disabled Facilities Grants - introduction (disabled people section)

• Apply for an adaption to a council property Opens new window