Repairs

In 2019, Cambs HIA renamed all its repairs and other grants under one name “Special Purpose Assistance Grants”. This grant now covers repairs, energy efficiency measures, safety and security improvements and other type of work to the home which is not covered by a Disabled Facilities Grant. This grant is available for residents of Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire. The first £10,000 is given as a grant and for very serious hazardous repairs, further funding is available which is secured as an interest free loan against your property.

This grant can be helpful for those who own their own home but cannot afford to complete the more major repairs. It is available for residents on low incomes or low-income benefits. It cannot be used for repairs that are a landlord’s responsibility.

Maintaining, repairing and improving your home can be essential to ensure that it is safe, comfortable and continues to meet your needs.

Cambs HIA can provide information, advice and guidance about funding available to help you keep your home well maintained.

“I am writing to express my profound gratitude for the job [that] has been done … at my home. Now I really enjoy living in my house. That would not be possible without the Home Repair Assistance Grant.” – Mr K

Items that need regular checks include:

Spring

  • Check your roof – repair any leaks with suitable roof covering
  • Clear all debris/leaves from gutters
  • Touch up external painting/varnishing (every 5 years)
  • Clean PVCu windows & lubricate hinges and stays

Summer

  • Re-seal all junctions of windows and doors with suitable filler or sealant, and replace draught- proofing
  • Trim tree branches that have grown over your roof
  • Ensure the chimney is cleaned by a chimney sweep
  • Remove soil from external walls to maintain a distance of 150mm (6 inches) from ground level to damp proof course
  • Service your boiler by a ‘Gas Safe’ registered contractor & bleed radiators to remove air.

Autumn

  • Inspect floorboards & fill any holes or cracks
  • Make sure vents are free from dust/debris
  • Check and replace carbon monoxide & smoke alarm batteries
  • Repair any cracks, holes or crevices that are not part of your home ventilation system

Winter

  • Check exposed water pipes & taps and insulate them if necessary
  • Check plumbing for leaks
  • Seal gaps around baths, wash hand basins and showers with suitable filler or sealant
  • Remove combustible materials or inflammable liquids situated near boilers