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What is a decoration allowance?

A decoration allowance is a payment made by the council to a tenant in two circumstances - where a tenant is going into their new home or, following major repairs or programmed works within their home such as re-plastering. The payment is made to help the tenant redecorate their council property. The council calculates how much the payment will be. This only applies for goods classed as decoration materials.

The decoration allowance is usually issued in the form of a voucher form that tenants can exchange for goods in most DIY stores (NB this only applies for goods classed as decoration materials). Most vouchers are valid for a period of six months, although this may depend on the policies of your council.

How you can apply for a decoration allowance

To apply for a decoration allowance for major or programmed works you will need to contact your local council, usually in writing, detailing your name, address and reason why you want to receive this payment.

The following links will let you enter details of where you live and then take you to your local authority website where you can find out more about applying for a decoration allowance.

• Apply for decoration and disturbance allowance Opens new window
• Find out about decoration and disturbance allowances for council tenants Opens new window

Temporary accommodation

If your local council carries out major work to your home they may try to arrange them so you can remain in your home while the works are being undertaken.

In the unlikely event that you do have to leave your home, the council will try to arrange temporary accommodation, having regard for your needs. In these circumstances the council will meet the cost of this accommodation.