'Phenomenal’ response to vacant and derelict property grant in Waterford

There has been a “phenomenal” response to the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant in Waterford.

Acting Director of Housing, Community and Emergency Services at Waterford City and County Council, Claire Hartley, told elected members at last week’s sitting of Comeragh District Council that they have 238 applications in the system.

“It is a phenomenally popular scheme, and it is bringing vacant and derelict properties back into use,” said Ms Hartley.

Cllr Seamus Power asked if the Local Authority Home Loan could be used, in conjunction with the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.

Ms Hartley said it could be, but the owner of the vacant to derelict property must have been refused finance from a bank.

She confirmed the council will accept one refusal as opposed to the usual two required.

Cllr Catherine Burke also asked if vacant and derelict properties could be purchased, refurbished and added to the council’s social housing stock. Ms Hartley said they would bring in any units they could for social housing.

THE GRANT 

The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant provides funding to bring vacant and derelict homes back into use.

Owners can apply for up to €50,000 for vacant properties and €70,000 for derelict buildings.

The grant is also available for properties that have not been previously used as residential properties.

If someone wants to buy a derelict property for renovation, they can apply for additional funding under the Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan, which is an extension of the Local Authority Home Loan.

HOUSING ADAPTION GRANT

At last week’s meeting, Cllr John O’Leary asked when the increase for the Housing Adaption Scheme for People with Disabilities announced earlier this month would come into effect.

Ms Hartley responded that this would be December 1, 2024, with the grant is to increase from €30,000 to €40,000 from December. 

Cllr Power said the council welcomed the increase.