Working with Local Authorities, Housing Associations, and OTs

Getting assistance for home adaptations can be a confusing process. There's a lot of information out there, but knowing where to find it and what to look for is often the major problem. While awareness is getting better, it's still a significant challenge for many.

At Steinwall, we believe in making the process as clear as possible by explaining how to work effectively with the key parties involved.

The Critical First Step: The Occupational Therapist Assessment

The most important first step is to arrange for an Assessment of Needs to be carried out by an Occupational Therapist (OT). This is a necessary part of the process and is a mandatory requirement when you are working with a local authority to secure or justify the use funding. Note, it is not strictly necessary if you are self-funding your project.

The OT's will assess your day-to-day difficulties and determine the most suitable adaptations for your home. They will then make a referral to the relevant team in your Local Authority, who would be responsible for progressing Works through to completion. This whole process is usually initiated through your Local Authority's Adult Social Care department, which is typically the first point of contact when you are seeking assistance for adaptations.

The connection between the OT, Local Authorities and Housing Teams

In circumstances such as above, the OT's assessment forms the foundation for your project. They will make recommendations for the most appropriate works to meet your needs. The technical staff (usually a Surveyor) will ensure that the recommendations are feasible, produce suitable Works schedules & drawings and ensure Works are completed in compliance with Regulations. We believe the best solutions are often provided by working collaboratively with OTs to translate their recommendations into practical, well-designed solutions.

How the OT links into Housing and Local Authority teams

• The OT identifies the functional needs and recommends the type of adaptations required to help you live safely and independently.

• Their report is then passed to the relevant housing team within the Local Authority or Housing Association. This could be an adaptations team, building services team or housing maintenance department, depending on local structures.

• From this point, technical staff—often a surveyor or adaptations officer—step in. They assess the feasibility of the OT’s recommendations in the context of your property type, layout, and any legal or structural constraints.

  
  

What the Housing/Technical Teams Do

• They translate OT recommendations into practical plans by producing drawings, specifications and schedules of work.

• They confirm that proposed adaptations comply with Building Regulations, Planning requirements and landlord obligations (if the property is rented).

• They liaise with contractors, oversee quotations, arrange approvals and manage the works to completion.

  
  

Collaboration is essential

• OTs bring the clinical understanding of your physical needs.

• Housing professionals bring the technical knowledge of buildings, funding mechanisms and legal processes.

• Local Authorities and Housing Associations coordinate the governance side—budgets, grants (including the DFG), procurement and sign-off.

When these teams communicate well, adaptations are not only clinically appropriate but also technically sound, cost-effective and legally compliant.

Local Authority & Housing Association Projects

For adaptations funded or managed by Local Authorities or Housing Associations, the OT’s report is non-negotiable. It justifies the need for works and unlocks funding streams such as the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG). Once the OT’s assessment is submitted:

• The housing/adaptation team reviews it and confirms eligibility.

• Surveyors translate the OT recommendations into a deliverable scheme.

• The Local Authority or Housing Association manages approvals, contractors and installation.

We regularly work alongside these teams to make sure the clinical recommendations are applied correctly and efficiently on site.

Self-Funded Projects

Even when funding privately, an OT assessment provides clarity on what adaptations will genuinely improve your day-to-day life. It also gives any surveyor, builder or architect a solid brief to work from, reducing wasted time and unnecessary costs.

Navigating the System

Working with Local Authorities and Housing Associations can feel slow, but it's important to understand their processes. They have specific procedures for approvals, surveys, and managing contractors. This is often where a company like Steinwall adds significant value.

We act as an intermediary, helping you understand the requirements and managing the project on your behalf. We have extensive experience working with councils and housing associations, which helps to streamline the process and reduce potential delays. Our goal is to ensure that you get the adaptation you need, with a minimum of stress and waiting time.

To find out more about how we can help you work with your Local Authority or Housing Association, visit our website at steinwall.co.uk.