Private Sector Housing and Regeneration Assistance Policy

Over recent years the Government has encouraged Local Authorities to provide a variety of assistance to support homeowners to repair or renovate their homes and also to help them when they have to move home as a result of clearance. The Government believes that it is first and foremost the responsibility of homeowners to maintain their own property, rather than that of the Government or the Local Authority. Where assistance is provided by the local Authority this is included in a local policy.

Wirral Council's approach to assistance is outlined in the Wirral Private Sector Housing and Regeneration Assistance Policy.

In relation to renovation and repair Wirral’s policy provides a range of assistance to encourage the maintenance and improvement of property towards ensuring housing is safe, in good repair, energy efficient, affordably warm and has adequate facilities. This assistance includes advice, financial support in the form of loans and grants in certain cases, referrals to other relevant agencies and enforcement.

For both homeowners and businesses involved in demolition schemes support is provided through dedicated specialist advisory services set up to guide people through the clearance process. A range of financial support is also available.

Financial support is focused on areas where serious problems are felt to exist, including Rock Ferry, Tranmere, Birkenhead, Seacombe and Egremont, however loan assistance for urgent essential repairs is available to owner-occupiers outside these areas, who receive certain means tested benefits or who can prove that they have been refused a loan by a Bank or Building Society.