Keeping a house or flat in good condition is the responsibility of the owner. It is in their interest to make sure that necessary repairs and improvements are carried out, to keep the home in good condition and maintain its value.
The government also has an interest in making sure that private homes are in good condition. The government recognises that some people cannot afford to pay for the work needed to keep their home in good condition, so grants may be available to help.
There are two main types of grant, Improvement Grants and Repair Grants. The type of grant that may be available will depend on the work you are planning to carry out.
Improvement Grants can be awarded to bring an existing house up to tolerable standard; for example by installing a damp proof course. They can also be awarded to make houses suitable for occupants with disabilities; for example by improving access or making adaptations to a bathroom.
Repair Grants can be awarded for work to both the inside and outside of a house which is required to maintain its useful life; for example repairs to the roof or the replacement of lead plumbing.
There are some conditions on the award of grant.
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The house must have been built or converted more than 10 years ago.
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On completion of any grant aided works the house must meet the Tolerable Standard, have all Standard Amenities and be in a good state of repair.
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For a period of five years after the award of grant the house must remain a private dwelling, remain in a good state of repair and must be the occupants main residence, otherwise the grant may have to be repaid.
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There are limits on the amount of grant that can be awarded and an assessment of the applicant's income is required.
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Work must not start before a grant has been awarded.
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Most grants are now means tested.
If you feel that your property is in a state of disrepair and you have limited prospect of funding any essential repairs from your own resources we may arrange to inspect the property to assess its general condition and offer further advice.
For further information on the Council's scheme of grants for housing improvement or repair contact 01389 738662.
Due to the number of applications and enquiries we receive for this funding it is possible that your application will not be approved within this financial year.
