Recognising the needs of its disabled and elderly tenants in the Borough, and their desire to live independently, the Council has set up a Handyman and Decoration Scheme for its tenants.

Older Persons' Decoration scheme:

This scheme is open to tenants where all members of the household are 65 years or over, or to those who are physically disabled and living independently.

The Council will provide the labour to complete the decoration of one room every five years. All materials must be provided by the tenant. Where a property is under occupied the main bedroom, living area, kitchen and bathroom and hallway will be considered by the Council for redecorating. Spare rooms will not be considered.

Handyman scheme:

The Handyman Scheme is a free service for council tenants offering help with small DIY jobs, tenants only need to supply materials needed to do the job.

To be eligible tenants must be:
- A tenant 65 or over, or
- Disabled or
- Living in a Dartford Borough Council Supported Scheme

Proof of the above may be requested. If there is someone living in the home that could carry out the work then you will not be eligible.

Jobs the handyman could do:
- Replace light bulbs
- Light garden jobs
- Small areas of decorating
- Replace WC seats, small areas of tiling, sealant around bath/sink
- Put up curtain/tracks
- Change tap washers
- Put up bathroom cabinets and other small items of similar nature
- Put up shelves and pictures
- Fit locks
- Minor measures to combat condensation eg: mould removal, clear vents/fit covers
- Bleed radiators
- Move furniture around the property (provided it can be done by one person)
- Turn mattresses
- Install safety features and give advice:
- Fit tenants smoke/carbon monoxide alarms
- Fix down dangerous carpets and trailing leads
- Fit grab rails
- Give security and energy efficiency advice

Repairs:
- Carry out small repairs to paths (to get rid of trip hazards), gates and fences
- Unblock sinks, basins, baths and WC's
- Repair locks

Please note: there may be jobs that are not included on this list.

To apply for the scheme tenants must contact the Council on 01322 343800. There is currently a waiting list in operation.