A key component of the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness is a new scheme, the Vacant Housing Repair and Leasing Initiative, which targets the delivery of social housing and also ensures that existing housing stock is used to the maximum degree possible. Kilkenny County Council have piloted and progressed the initiative with Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage support.

The basis of the scheme is that repair and improvement works to suitable vacant properties are funded to bring them up to the standard for rented accommodation and the cost of the works is then deducted from lease payments over an agreed lease term.

Kilkenny County Council will assist property owners to develop the scope of works and also aid the property owner in the completion of the repair works. Property inspections are carried out by Kilkenny County Council staff who will identify the works required to bring the dwelling to the required standard.

• RLS provides social housing through the renovation of vacant privately owned properties.
• Kilkenny County Council or an approved housing body (AHB), provides a loan to carry out works on vacant properties to bring them up to rental standards.
• The renovated home is leased to Kilkenny County Council or AHB to provide social housing for between 5 and 25 years.
• he maximum loan is €80,000, including VAT, per completed unit; 2 units max €160,000, 3 units max €240,000 etc.
• The loan is offset against the monthly lease payment to the owner.
• Income – lease payments maximum 80%/85% of market rent for long-term leases or 92%/95% for RAA, less offset.

Benefits to the Property Owner