The Welsh Government wants landlords to lease their empty properties to local councils in a bid to boost the number of affordable homes within its private rented sector.

Its Leasing Scheme Wales offers landlords and owners of empty homes the chance to lease their properties for between five and 20 years, with a guaranteed monthly rental income at the local housing allowance rate and a full property management service from the council.

Properties could also be eligible for grant funding of up to £25,000 for renovations and up to £5,000 for energy efficiency improvements to increase the EPC rating to level C. Repairs of any damage to the property made by tenants would be paid for by the local authority and this funding could be extended to a maximum of £25,000 for empty properties.

Wasted resource

Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant (main image) says empty homes are a wasted resource.

She adds: “This scheme is a fantastic way of making homes more accessible and affordable. I look forward to seeing how property owners and landlords can be supported through the scheme to deliver safe, long term and affordable homes for tenants.”

The scheme – currently run by 20 local councils in the region – also aims to provide longer term security of accommodation, improve housing standards, support tenants to maintain their tenancy and help reduce homelessness.

Properties need to meet certain standards to be eligible for the scheme, and landlords can find out more by contacting their local authority.

Pic credit: Jayne Bryant/Labour Party