COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

QUESTION NO.25

QUESTION: Councillor C. Brady

To ask the manager the manager what are the top five reasons Housing Adaptation Grant application forms are returned to applicants in the LPNC LEA and the number of applications returned by reason?

REPLY:

The top five reasons application forms for the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and Disabled People, in private homes are typically returned are as follows:

1. Incomplete Application Forms:
   This is the most frequent reason for returned applications. Sections are often left incomplete, or information provided is insufficient for assessment.
2. Insufficient Proof of Income:
   Applicants fail to submit the necessary documentation to verify their income such as statement of liability for those on private pensions and a statement from social welfare for those only receiving state pension.
3. Occupational Therapist (OT) Reports and receipts:
   OT reports are mandatory to assess certain necessary adaptations, and without them, applications cannot proceed. Private OT report costs up to a value of €250 can be claimed back if an application is approved.
4. Local Property Tax(LPT) Compliance:
   Applicants do not supply the required LPT compliance documentation which  proves the property in question meets statutory requirements. Acceptable LPT proof includes evidence of payment, deferral, or exemption. LPT documentation serves as verification of the registered property owner’s identity
5. Required Contractor Reports
    For applications involving works such as heating, electrical, or roofing repairs, contractor reports are essential.

In 2024, a total of 136 grant applications were received in the Lucan Palmerstown North Clondalkin Local Electoral Area. The average return rate across the South Dublin administrative area for applications was 53%, primarily due to the reasons outlined above. While return rate is recorded, information specific to Local Electoral Areas or the exact reason for returns is not maintained.

A checklist of all required documentation that is required is included on  the grant application form. If assistance is required, the Private Housing Grants team can be contacted by emailing hgrants@sdublincoco.ie or by phoning 01 4149373. Support is also available from Local Co-ordinators of the Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme. They can be contacted by phoning 046-9248899. These local co-ordinators support the population over 65yrs in the South Dublin County Council area and will make an appointment to visit an applicant in their home to advise and  assist with the application form. Their contact information is now included on correspondence sent to applicants whose incomplete application forms are returned.