Repair and Leasing Scheme

The Repair and Leasing Scheme is an opportunity to bring vacant houses or commercial properties back into use as homes for families and individuals on the social housing waiting list.

What is RLS and what funding is available?

Suitable buildings are typically located in central locations or are in high profile sites that benefit from renovation.  Some key areas of interest for Laois County Council are Portlaoise and other towns.

Under the Repair and Leasing Scheme, the local authority or an Approved Housing Body (AHB), will provide interest free funding of up to €80,000 (including VAT) per individual home delivered, to bring the property up to rental standard.  In return, the homes are leased to the local authority or an AHB for between 5 and 25 years.  The loan is repaid via a deduction in the monthly rent over an agreed term within the lease.

  • RLS provides social housing through the renovation of vacant privately owned properties.
  • Laois County Council provides a loan to carry out works on vacant properties to bring them up to rental standards in accordance with the Housing (Standards For Rented Houses) Regulations 2019.
  • The renovated home is leased to Laois County Council to provide social housing for between 5 and 25 years.
  • The 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 property owner

  • Long-term lease option (5 to 25 years) or Rental Availability Agreement (5 to 10 years typically).
  • Laois County Council is the landlord to the tenant; no day-to-day maintenance (long-term lease only).
  • No loss of rent during vacant periods; no advertising/letting fees.
  • Guaranteed income for lifetime of lease.
  • Interest free loan up to €80,000 including VAT, per unit, for example, where a vacant pub is converted into 7 units, maximum funding of €560,000 is available.  In the case of multi-unit developments, funding may be apportioned between units.
  • There is no limit on the number of units one property owner can provide under RLS.
  • Tax relief under the Living Cities Initiative may apply, where appropriate (provided that all other requirements of the Initiative are met).

What properties qualify?

  • Properties must be vacant for at least 12 months; and
  • Laois County Council must decide that the units are required and suitable for social housing.

Where can I apply?

If you are interested in applying for this scheme or wish to discuss your options, please submit a Repair and Leasing Scheme Application Form or contact us at vacanthomes@laoiscoco.ie

Further information.