They can give you guidance on:

• deciding what work is needed
• choosing reliable tradesmen
• paying for the work
• overseeing the work

The service is available to owner-occupiers, private tenants and crofters aged 60 or over or who have a disability.

What it includes

The Care and Repair services that are available will depend on where you live.

They might include:

• Care and Repair staff visiting you at home
• advice on repairs, improvements and adaptations
• recommendations of local tradesmen from an approved contractor list
• help getting competitive estimates for work
• help getting surveys and drawings
• help to organise building work
• advice and support during building work, like dealing with your contractor
• help with disruption to your home, like alternative accommodation
• inspections of work carried out
• small repairs like fitting handrails or putting up shelves
• handyperson services like replacing light bulbs or unblocking sinks

What it costs

Charges depend on the task involved. For example, you'll be charged for the cost of materials when using a handyperson service.

Care and Repair staff can give you advice on:

• budgeting for repair work
• help with funding, like grants from local councils
• benefits
• equity release
• home loans
• charitable funds

To apply, contact your local Care and Repair service.