We want you to feel at home in your Service Family Accommodation (SFA) and understand how important it is to be able to personalise your space.
We’re committed to modernising our policies to allow more freedoms for you to make improvements to your home, giving you a greater sense of pride in your homes. As part of this we’re also streamlining processes to make it easier for you to do things like own pets and run businesses from your SFA.
We support the use of enhancements that can make your home feel more comfortable and reflective of your personal style.
For temporary enhancements, families will not need to submit forms or seek approval to carry these out as they will be able to be removed prior to moving out.
For permanent enhancements, families need to request these via a simple form on the Pinnacle website.
Read on to find out more about enhancements you can make to your military home, be inspired by real life SFA examples and learn about a few boundaries in place to ensure any enhancements are done so safely.
Keep an eye on this page and the latest SFA news section for the latest Patch Hack updates as we continue to update our policies to make life easier for Service families.
What is a temporary enhancement?
Temporary enhancements refer to non-permanent changes you can make to the interior of your SFA that can be removed ahead of moving out.
Additions such as non-drill wall decorations such as wall decals or “peel and stick” wallpaper for creative wall designs or temporary borders. Tiled surface enhancements including removable adhesive wall or floor tiles could also be options for light touch enhancements.
Removable splashback covers for behind sinks or stoves, and command strips or removable hooks for lightweight wall hangings (pictures, clocks, mirrors) are included within this category of light touch enhancements. You may also wish to add non-electrical lighting such as adhesive cabinet lights, wireless wall lamps or sconces, or motion-sensor hallway lights.
What types of enhancements would not be included?
Any permanent changes have a separate process, explained below. Any enhancements to your home which could cause safety risks are not permitted. Temporary enhancements should leave no trace for future families but allow you to adapt your home to your personal taste while you live there.
Safety first
Please be safe when making temporary enhancements to your home, read and follow any manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly and be careful when using ladders and tools. Any enhancements in the bathroom and kitchen should be heat and water resistant for your safety.
Please remember not to use enhancements that cover or obstruct ventilation systems or extractor fans.
Can I paint my walls or ceilings?
SFA are presented with neutral colours on the walls and ceilings, we realise that some families may wish to personalise these and will be sharing further guidance on painting your home.
What do I need to do before I move out?
At your pre-move out appointment, you will be reminded to remove any temporary enhancements you have made, cleaning any adhesive residue to restore the home to move out standard. Visit the Pinnacle website for details on moving out of your UK SFA.
What is a permanent enhancement?
A permanent enhancement is one that can’t be removed without a trace before move out. Examples would include additional plug sockets, built in wardrobes or shelving, built in appliances, cemented in play equipment, ceiling fans or permanent window films. You need to request permission to make permanent enhancements to your home. You can submit a request via the Pinnacle website’s application to erect a minor encroachment form.
Need help?
We’re here to support you in making your home your own – safely. If you’re unsure about any improvement or have questions, please contact your Housing Officer before making changes.
Inspiration
Have you made temporary enhancements to your military home?
We’d love to share them to help inspire other military families on what can be done to personalise their home. Tag or message us on our DIO Instagram or X account or fill out this form and we’ll get in touch.