General Policy Background
The Accredited Landlords Grant has been introduced under the Regulatory reform (Housing Assistance) (England and Wales) Order 2002. The Grant links to the Accreditation Scheme set up through Guidance from the DETR under the proposals in the 'Quality and Choice: A Decent Home For All - The Way Forward For Housing' document, published in 2000.
It is designed to assist responsible landlords to carry out improvements to properties which will benefit the tenants.
Amount of Assistance
The maximum amount of grant or cost of materials that may be provided on any one application is £1,000.
Eligible Applicants
Landlords who are eligible and registered on the voluntary accreditation scheme can apply for a grant.
Eligible Works
Landlords can apply for a grant of up to £1,000 for either:
- Improvements to the energy efficiency of the property eg increased loft insulation, costs towards an energy efficient boiler, cavity wall insulation etc. Discount schemes for these installations may be available locally; or
- An upgrade of the existing fire alarm system or improvements to the means of escape in case of fire. This may include recommendations made by the Local Fire Officer
Conditions
Landlords must let their properties for three years following the completion of any grant works. Evidence of this must be provided to the Council. If the landlord fails to do so, the Council may demand all or partial repayment of the full amount together with compound interest on that amount.
A Landlord may apply for up to three grants for individual properties in any three year period.
Please Note: Work started prior to receiving a Certificate of Approval will not be eligible.
Payment
Eden District Council must be satisfied that the works have been properly completed before paying grant or recording that the cost of assistance with materials has been properly made. However, the contract for work remains between the applicant and the contractor. The Council does not have any liability in any contract between the grant applicant and the builder carrying out the works. It is for the client to ensure that the contract is undertaken to his satisfaction.
Application for a Grant
All applications must be submitted on the Accredited Landlords Grant application form together with:
- Certificate of Future Occupation
- Proof of ownership of the rented property
- Two competitive estimates
