HOUSE RENOVATION

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIII, Issue 20893, 24 November 1937, Page 7

HOUSE RENOVATION

SCHEME FOR ADVANCES By Telegraph—F.ess Association AUCKLAND. November 23. The possibility of advancing money to a property owner at not more than 4 per cent for the purpose of effecting Improvements to dwellings, which are shown by the housing survey to require renovation and repair, was mentioned to the report of the Property Committee to the City Council. The report stated that there was no doubt, but a large number of properties would be found to require a great deal of attention to bring them up to a reasonable standard for living purposes. It was also realised that many property owners would be unable to afford the cost of repairs, renovations, and painting, if they were required to pay for them at once, and it was suggested that the Government should be requested to advance money to them at not more than 4 per cent to carry out the work. Alternatively, the Government could lend money to the Council on such terms as would enable the Council to advance it to owners at 4 per cent or under.

"Should the Government approve the suggestion, but be of the opinion that the scheme could be more readily handled through the local authorities,” the report added, “it is suggested that it should be requested to pass legislation authorising the Council to advance money, and enabling of security for Its repayment to be a first charge on the property.” "It is a very fine suggestion, and the chairman of the committee is to be complimented on bringing it forward,” said the Hon. T. Bloodworth. M.L.C. The report was adopted.