Increase announced in redress scheme for pyrite-affected homeowners

HOMEOWNERS in Mayo affected by pyrite can now obtain a maximum grant of €462,000 to rebuild their homes. 

The government has confirmed a ten percent increase on the maximum payable grant under the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme.

An increase of between 7.4 percent and 8.7 percent in the grant rates payable to households in the northwest and midwest regions has also been announced.

The increase amounts will apply to eligible homeowners who have not received a determination regarding remediation options and compensation amounts.

As of August 31, Mayo County Council had received 395 Stage 1 Confirmation of Eligibility Applications to the pyrite redress scheme. Of these, 203 have received Stage Two approval. Twenty-seven pyrite-afflicted houses in Mayo have been rebuilt so far.

Many Mayo homeowners who have accessed the pyrite redress scheme have been left with considerable out-of-pocket costs after rebuilding their homes. 

This is due to compensation being primarily calculated based on the square footage of the house, rather than the total rebuild costs. 

Minister of State for Housing, Alan Dillon TD, said that homeowners could also receive a maximum of €25,000 for alternative accommodation and storage costs and immediate repair works. 

The overall cost of the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme is now estimated at at least €2.3 million.