Landlords in Orkney have been offered loans of up to £25,000 to renovate their empty properties – on the condition they rent them to essential workers.

The new loan scheme is designed to help bring long-term empty homes back into use and make them available for affordable private rent. Orkney Council is particularly keen to hear from owners of one- and two-bedroom properties in Kirkwall and Stromness.

The island has one of the highest rates of empty homes in Scotland, while it has also been grappling with a severe shortage of rental homes, with the lack of accommodation making it difficult for incoming essential workers to find somewhere to live.

Under the scheme, there are legal conditions for use of the property for 10 years after works are complete: for the first five years, landlords must make the home available for private rent and priority must be given to an eligible essential worker including staff in health and social care, construction, and hospitality. During years six to 10, the property can continue to be rented to an essential worker, or a member of the landlord’s family can live there as their only or main home.

Suitable

The authority explains: “The council may be able to help you look for a tenant but finding one remains your responsibility. If you cannot find a suitable essential worker within eight weeks after the home becomes available, you may look for another tenant.”

The loan - repayable at 5.5% - can support a wide range of repairs and improvements needed to meet the Repairing Standard, including electrical works, heating systems, repairs to roofs, windows and doors, damp treatment and other essential improvements.

Opportunity

Councillor Gwenda Shearer, chair of the education, communities and housing committee, adds: “Across Orkney we know there are houses sitting empty that could become much-needed homes for people working in essential roles. This new scheme is an opportunity for owners to access financial support to carry out necessary repairs while helping tackle housing pressures and supporting our communities.”

More information is available here.

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