The Government is committed to ensuring that by 2010, at least 70% of homes are of a decent standard. This applies to both private & public sector housing occupied by people on low incomes or that are receiving government credits.
A decent home is one that is wind and weather tight, warm and has reasonably modern facilities.
A grant of up to £5000 may be made available where it is felt that elements of a private property may significantly affect the health or safety of the householders. Improvements that cost more than any grant awarded may be funded through loans offered through a partner of the council.
Anyone that is considered to be living in a non-decent private home is eligible for assistance, as long as they are disabled, older (over 60) or have a dependant child under 16 (or a pregnant mother with a maternity certificate MAT B1) AND are receiving either:
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
- Guarantee Pension Credit
- Income based job-seekers allowance
- Council Tax Benefit
- Working Tax Credit (income <£15050, must include a disability element)
- Child Tax Credit (household income <£15050)
A qualifying disabled person is in receipt of:
- Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance
- Carers Allowance
- Invalidity pension
- Long term incapacity benefit
- Mobility Supplement
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- Short term incapacity benefit equal to or above the long term rate
North Kesteven District Council are working with a number of partners to ensure complete customer value and satisfaction during this process, from an initial discussion through to completion of any improvements.
A Housing Renewal Officer dedicated to providing support for households in private sector non-decent homes is now employed by the council. To contact him:
Housing Renewal Team Tel: 01529 414155
