we are looking into building on a downstairs bathroom and a dining room which will be a bedroom in the future, as we are making the alterations due to my M.S should I put in our planning application stating the dining room is a bedroom as thats what it will be ultimatly become ( hopefully later rather than sooner) and would it help to say that our extension is due to my mobility problems. Have just found a that one story extensions within a certain criteria can be granted through a free scheme but they have to be finished by 2016. the info is on the planning portal.
Yes, definitely mention that the alterations are for a disabled person, as this will also allow you a small reduction in council tax.
You may also be entitled to a disabled facility grant, your ot would be able yo help here, might be worth having a word.
Go8d luck.
Pam x
We are having an extension with ground floor bedroom & bathroom built at present. I strongly advise you to go through your occupational therapist and your local council to get it done - this takes away so much stress and responsibility, as they put in all the planning etc and they know what to do & say so it goes through smoothly. Also having an OT on hand ensures that all possible future needs, that you may not have considered, are taken into consideration. For example widening doors to allow easier access. The council effectively act as project managers and take all of the organisation out of your hands, while still letting you be in control of choosing what you want. I have been consulted on everything from planning and position of windows and doors to choosing floor covering and tiles. Even if you don’t qualify for a grant and have to fund it yourself, it’s still a good thing to have the council run the build.
By the way my house is private, a lot of people think you can only get council adaptations on council houses but this is incorrect.
We’ve not long finished an extension, as far as it went with us, they aren’t bothered what goes inside,it is the outside that concerns them so ŵhat the room is used for shouldn’t be too much of a concern. However, if you are adding a bedroom they look to see if you have enough paying available on the street or driveway to support possibly the house having an extra bedroom, so if parking is a problem beside you, they might frown upon an extra bedroom, not just for you for now but potentially for selling the house. Adaptations for a disabled person are vat free so take this into account but that isn’t an issue for planning permission, if is for the builders and tax office. Cheryl:-)
Hi, We’re looking to have our kitchen adapted and have two rooms knocked into one. My OT gave me a leaflet about a company called Metropolitan. When I first emailed them for further info, I was asked if I was a resident because I didn’t show up on their books. When I explained further, I received an email saying that I’d be contacted by the appropriate people. Still waiting. In my experience, these sort of companies get so much business via Social Services, that they don’t need to try very hard for the business. We’ve since found a builder and things are starting to move forward. Heather
Thanks for your replies, all really helpful.Do I get hold of OT throught my M.S Nurse or the GP
Cheers x
It’s probably quicker if you self-refer. Google your local council’s adult services department and give them a call.