Foundations launches new game-changing standard for the installation of home adaptations
Foundations, the national body for home improvement agencies in England, has set up a new initiative that it hopes will make a real difference in the way home adaptations are delivered across the country.
The Home Adaptations Installer Network (HAIN) aims to ensure that essential modifications for older adults and people with disabilities are carried out by reliable and skilled professionals. Whether funded by Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) or privately by individuals, the network aims to offer a trusted route to find quality tradespeople.
The free initiative is expected to not only support local authorities obtain a reliable list of contractors to install vital home adaptations but also help members of the public find a builder who genuinely understands how to adapt a home and make it accessible.
HAIN is expected to help councils nationwide manage and grow their local builder lists. It will show which builders are active in their area and confirm key checks like insurance, training and experience, helping to ensure they are accessing contractors with DBS checks and TrustMark registration.
It is also expected to help local authorities more easily onboard new installers and offer a feedback system to help monitor quality; helping to ensure Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)-funded work is safe, timely and appropriate.
Later this year, Foundations states that it plans to open up the Installer Network to the public. For the first time, people will be able to search for a builder who understands how to adapt a home and make it accessible, whether or not they are applying for a grant. This will be particularly beneficial to people who don’t qualify for a DFG; don’t want to wait for an assessment; or want to adapt their home as part of future planning.
Foundations says that it is not “just another contractor list” as the builders in the network will be people who understand that adaptations are not like other building work. They will have committed to training in adaptations and inclusive design and a code of conduct that puts the client first with clear standards around safety, communication and quality.
Paul Smith, Director of Foundations, comments: “It’s about doing the job right, first time, and understanding the impact that even small changes can make to someone’s life.”
He adds: “We’re not claiming this will solve every problem in the system. But we are building something practical, scalable, and rooted in what people have told us they need – a national network, based on local knowledge.”
The Home Adaptations Installer Network is now live here.
Early registrations will get priority support as the network is rolled out this spring and summer. Local authorities who would like to use HAIN to manage their contractor list are invited to register their details.
