Empty Homes GrantThis provides a unique opportunity for the owners of empty properties to bring them back into use as a home by providing funds to improve the condition of the property to a good 'lettable standard'.
An owner accepting a grant under this scheme will be required to enter into an agreement with the Council to let the property for a period of five years.
Benefits to the Owner
- A grant of up to £10,000 to assist with the renovation of the property (subject to means test). Eligible works are repairs that are needed to make the property fit for human habitation and includes disrepair, dampness, structural stability, adequate natural lighting, ventilation, heating and water supply and satisfactory facilities and amenities
- An agreed period of letting under the scheme
- Security-less likelihood of break-ins
- Tenants pay council tax, water rates and fuel bills
- Knowing that your property has provided a home to someone in housing need
Who is entitled to apply?
To apply for an empty home grant, an applicant must have an owners interest in all the land in which the relevant works will be carried out. Essentially an owners interest means a freehold interest or a leasehold interest where there is at least five years to run.
Specification and Estimates to be submitted:
Two itemised specifications and estimates to be submitted from two separate builders. The estimates to have ALL ITEMS PRICED SEPARATELY AND INCLUDE DETAILS OF:
- Improvement or conversion work
- Repair work
- Damp proof course
BOTH THE BUILDER AND THE APPLICANT MUST SIGN ALL ESTIMATES. THE WORKS MUST BE CARRIED OUT BY ONE OF THE BUILDER’S WHO SUBMITS AN ESTIMATE.
How can I Apply?
If you wish to apply for an empty homes grant the first contact is with the Grants Agency Office on (01685) 726260 who will discuss in detail what options are available to bring the property back into use. If the property meets the aims of the Empty Homes Strategy and Grant framework we will arrange a visit to the property.
Following the visit, a schedule of eligible works will be drawn up. At this point you will also need to provide confirmation of your ownership, planning consent (if applicable) and a certificate of intending letting for five years, together with an agreement giving the Council the right to nominate tenants over this period.
On completion of the project, a final inspection will take place to ensure that the final works comply with the original schedule. The Council will pay the grant in a lump sum when the work is completed.
|