Homeowners and private landlords can now apply for a loan to fund house repairs and energy saving improvements through a Council-backed scheme.
The Home Improvement Loan is designed to help people who might find it hard to get a loan from a regular bank - such as older residents, those with low incomes, or people with health issues. It is an extension of a previous loan scheme which focused on helping residents fund green energy upgrades.
Under the scheme homeowners and landlords can borrow up to £25,000, while park home residents can borrow up to £10,000.
It can be used to fund projects including:
roof and structural repairs,
heating and hot water repairs or replacements, and;
tackling damp and rot in the home
Find out more about the Home Improvement Loan scheme
Councillor Peter La Broy, Cornwall Council cabinet member for housing, said: “We want to support residents to make their homes healthier to live in, more energy efficient and cheaper to run. However, funding these improvements can be a problem for many – our loan scheme aims to fill the gaps for people who may not be eligible for other loans.”
Lendology CIC is a not-for-profit organisation which has been appointed to manage and deliver the loans on behalf of Cornwall Council. The organisation works with several other local authorities to deliver similar schemes across the south west.
Emma Lower, CEO of Lendology CIC, said: “The extension of the scheme is a testament to how well this partnership has worked and the difference it has already made. By widening the offer, we can reach even more households who need our help.”