2. Home Improvement Grants in France

1. 2.1. French Housing Improvement Agency
   2.2. Eligible Persons
   2.3. Eligible Properties
   2.4. Eligible Works
   2.5. Level of Grant
   2.6. Application Process

2.5. What is the Level of Home Improvement Grants in France?

The level of the grant will vary according to the type of works, the location of the property and the circumstances of the applicant.

Accordingly, we can only give you a broad rule of thumb here. Whilst the basic level of grant may appear to be low, it can be lifted, depending on the circumstances of the applicant and the condition and location of the property.

For owner-occupiers the basic grant is 20% up to a ceiling of €13,000, but both the percentage level of the grant and the ceiling can be increased to those properties in a very poor condition and/or to households on a very low income.

Thus, it can increase to 50%, up to a maximum grant of €30,000, where the property is in a designated housing improvement area, or exceptionally where it is in a serious state of dilapidation.

For landlords the percentage level of the grant ranges from 15% to 70% of agreed works. The highest level grants are only available where the property is in a very poor condition, and/or vacant for more than twelve months, and the landlord is prepared to let the property on a controlled rent.

The actual amount of the grant for a landlord will depend on the size of the property for which a standard square metre rate applies. In the provinces, the standard rate in 2008 is €500m², but up to €800m², around Paris, Geneva and the Cote d'Azur, in each case up to a maximum surface area of 150m².

Similarly, tenants on low incomes can receive a grant of 70%, up to an expenditure ceiling of €8000.

In all cases there may be increases in the level of the grant in those areas where access to the property market is particularly difficult.

All grant assistance is net of any taxes payable.

There are higher rates of grant for adaptations to a property for a disabled person.

If the property is within a housing improvement area, called Opération Programme d’amélioration d’habitat (Opah), there is the prospect of additional assistance through the local or county council.