FAQ for Grant and Local Authority funded adaptations
Q Will you carry out all of the work?
A One team will carry out all the work in your home. The only other trade that may visit is an electrician. Our team leader will be your constant point of contact and assist and organise the work and be on site every day.
Q Who is paying for the work?
A The works are paid for by either a government grant or are directly funded by the local authority (LA). A grant will fund work in privately owned property. The LA will pay for works in council owned property. The funding criteria for adaptations are very clear as to what is and what isn’t going to be paid for. For example, we are only allowed to tile the immediate area to a shower. Any further tiling is viewed as cosmetic as it is not strictly required to enable the safe operation of the shower.
Q Do I have a choice of colours for the tiles and floor covering?
AYes and no! Usually, we are required to fit bumpy or flat white tiles, but we will try and match up with your existing tiles if we can purchase them locally and they are available. With flooring we will offer you a choice of colours, use this link to see a sample of Altro safety flooring colours http://www.altro.co.uk/Altro-Aquarius#colours
Q I don’t want grab rails on the wall of my new shower, can I refuse them?
A You do not have to have grabrails if you really don’t want them. Your Occupational Therapist will have recommended them as a safety aid for bathing access so please think very carefully before refusing them. If you do not like the design of the specified rails, we may be able to provide alternative styles.
Q What happens if my shower stops working?
A We guarantee labour and materials for one year. After one year it is your responsibility to arrange repairs. Some of the items we fit will have an extended guarantee provided by the manufacturer; you should contact the manufacturer directly to arrange an engineer. However even after one year we will continue to help where we can. This assistance is discretionary; please call us for more information.
Q Will my shower need servicing after the first year?
A Yes, if the instructions say you need to and especially if you have taken out an extended guarantee. Contact the manufacturer or us and we will provide you with the information you require and assist you.
Q The wastewater from my shower is not running away fast enough?
A Every shower tray has a shower waste trap that the wastewater flows into before it goes into the waste pipe. The shower trap will collect hair and soap and may get blocked. You should be able to remove the cover and remove any blockage. We suggest a monthly clean should be adequate. If you require assistance, please call us but note; advice is free, but a site visit may incur costs if we are not at fault.
Q I would like my shower curtains removed and shower doors fitted instead?
A The works in your home were specified by an Occupational Therapist on behalf of the funding provider. You should contact the funding provider in the first instance and explain the change in your circumstances. They will advise you of the next steps they may be able to take.
Q I need to use the toilet frequently, how will I manage if you disconnect the plumbing?
A We plan our work to minimise the amount of time your wc facilities will be unavailable. Usually, we can make our alterations and fit new items in just half a day. If the works are likely to last longer or you have frequent requirements, we can provide a portable chemical WC for your convenience. We will service the WC until your permanent facility is functional. Where bathing and toileting is a constant requirement, your OT may well recommend that you move out for a few days with a family member or to respite, please ask for further advice.