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Financial assistance available

The Council provides financial assistance in the form of simple interest-free repayment loans and equity release loans that have been specifically designed to suit the needs of our applicants.

Essential Works Interest Free Repayment Loan

If you have the means to support a repayment loan then this could be the right option to meet your needs.

The loan is administered in partnership Calderdale Credit Union and is given subject to a financial assessment, which will determine your ability to repay the loan on a monthly basis. The loan is an interest free loan and the maximum amount that can be borrowed is £10,000. Typically the repayment term would be 3 years but it is possible to extend this to 5 years if necessary.

Home Appreciation Loans (HAL)

If you are a home owner who cannot afford a repayment loan but you have equity in your property the HAL allows you to release some equity to be able to carry out those essential works and improvements.

With a HAL there are no monthly repayments and the loan is not repayable until the property is sold or there is a transfer of ownership. The HAL allows you to borrow a minimum between £2,000 and £30,000.

Please visit the Sheffield City Council website for more information on the   Home Appreciation Loan|

Private Works Assistance

Private works assistance may suit you if you are over 55, have savings to fund the work needed to your property but cannot face the hassle that is involved without help.

The aim of the Private Works Assistance is to give the client help and support and take away the strain of organising works themselves.

What happens next?

When your enquiry is received a caseworker will make an appointment to visit to discuss your needs and the options available to you. No charge is made for this part of the service.

• The Caseworker assigned to your application will guide you through the application process for financial assistance, as well as monitor and update the progress of your application. They will also provide information on related services that may provide assistance during the application process.
• Our Technical Officers will visit you and carry out a full survey of your property to determine what works are eligible for financial assistance. During this visit you can discuss any areas of concern relating to the condition of your house and the Technical Officer can give you appropriate advice on how to rectify these and whether these can be included in the list of works that we can aid you with financially. They are your technical representatives and will draw up an appropriate schedule of works with your agreement, put the works out to tender if necessary, deal with contractors, and can help resolve any questions or concerns you may have whilst the works are being carried out to ensure they reach a satisfactory conclusion.

Your questions answered

1. Will I have to make any monthly payments with a HAL?
   With a HAL there are no monthly repayments to make. The loan is paid off when the property is sold.
2. Are there any fees charged for any of the types of assistance offered?
   A 12 per cent Agency fee (based on the cost of the work) is charged for the following:
   • Interest free repayment loan
   • Private works assistance
     
     There are normally no fees added to a Home Appreciation Loan unless a property is not registered with the Land Registry or there are other unusual circumstances.
3. Is there a minimum amount I can borrow on the repayment loan?
   You can borrow as little as you want up to a maximum of £10,000 for essential property repairs (depending on an assessment of your ability to repay the loan.
4. How long do I have to pay back the repayment loan?
   The repayment loan is typically paid back over a three year period but it may be possible to extend this to five years.
5. I have applied for a Warm Front grant and have a shortfall of £600 which I cannot afford. Can I use the Interest Free Loan to pay for this?
   Yes clients can use the interest free loan to pay for this. The Home Improvement Service will send a referral to the Credit Union who will assess your ability to repay the loan. Alternatively contact the Housing Energy Action Team for advice and assistance.
6. What type of work could the Home Improvement Service assist with?
   Virtually anything. The team can give advice about any repairs, improvements and maintenance issues. Contact the team for more information. The only limitations are items such as extensions, conservatories and garages.
7. I am looking for heating insulation measures. Can you assist?
   The Housing Action Energy Team can provide information on the various schemes available which you may qualify for. In addition they can offer free advice on making your home more energy efficient. Contact the Housing Energy Action Team  for advice and assistance.
8. I am looking for central heating and have an annual income of £14,000 and receive Child Tax Credit. Is there any way you can help?
   You will be eligible for a Warm Front | grant which is a government scheme. Under this scheme you can get a grant of up to £3,500 towards the cost of gas central heating and up to £6,000 towards oil fired central heating.
9. I have severe arthritis and I am having a lot of trouble getting in and out of the bath. What are my options?
   The Accessible Homes Agency deal with adaptations works to properties. For more information see Adaptations for elderly and disabled people.

Contact the Home Improvement Service for information on how to apply.

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