Empty homes grants and loans frequently asked questions

Can I apply for a grant and loan at the same time?

Yes.

If I apply for a loan and/or a grant, can I sell my property after works are complete?

No, not for three years.

Is the loan interest free?

Yes.

What time period do I pay the loan over?

Depends on the loan amount and what is agreed with the provider.

What checks will I have to undergo to qualify for assistance?

There will be some financial checks you will have to undergo before any assistance is agreed.

Are there reasons where I won't qualify for assistance?

Under certain circumstances, for example you have major debt owed to the council, then we will not agree the assistance.

If I go on to sell the property, will I have to pay any money back?

Yes. If the property is sold within three years of the money being paid then a proportion of the money will have to be repaid depending on how many years have elapsed.

Will the council inspect the property to agree the works before the assistance is agreed?

Yes. A council surveyor will inspect the property and provide you with a schedule of works which will be covered by the financial assistance.

Are there restrictions on what I can spend the money on?

Yes. The council surveyor will agree the schedule of works to be covered by the financial assistance, this will be essential works to satisfy health and safety and statutory compliance requirements.

Can I do extra works to what is agreed by the council?

Yes. You can do whatever works you like to your property, but the financial assistance will only cover the essential works agreed with the council surveyor.

How many quotes will I have to get from contractors for the work?

We will expect you to get three quotes for the works from three qualified contractors.

Will I have to go with the cheapest quote?

Yes, we will expect you to go with the cheapest quote.

When will I get the money?

The money will be paid 50% on completion of the works, and 50% on occupation of the property.

Will the works be inspected by the council after they have been completed?

Yes, the works will be reinspected on completion to ensure that the agreed works have been completed and completed to the required standard prior to making any payment.

Will I be paid, or will the contractor be paid directly?

The money will be paid direct to the property owner who will in turn pay the contractor, as all financial agreements are with the owner.

I have more than one property that needs works, can I make separate applications for each property?

Yes, each application will be assessed separately.

My property needs more work than I can get assistance for, are there other options for help available to me?

Yes, the council has a range of other options available, such as our private sector leasing scheme. Please contact privatesectorhousing@sunderland.gov.uk

Can the council help me find a tenant for my property?

Yes, the council has a voluntary Landlord Accreditation Scheme. Please contact privatesectorhousing@sunderland.gov.uk