Glossary

Glossary of Terms

Home Improvement Agencies (HIAs)
These are small, locally based not-for-profit organisations. They work with local authorities to help homeowners and private sector tenants who are older, disabled or on low income to repair, improve, maintain or adapt their homes. They provide people-centred, cost effective assistance, and help to tackle poor or unsuitable housing, enabling clients to remain in their own home, safe, secure, warm and independent.

HIAs currently operate in 300 local authority areas. They are sometime referred to as “Care and Repair” agencies or “Staying Put” schemes. Usually they are managed by housing associations, local authorites, charities or independent management committees.
An Independent Financially Qualified Person
An individual who is qualified to give independent advice and who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.