Q    What is the IDB Home Improvement Subsidy?
A    The IDB Home Improvement Subsidy is a grant programme which provides persons with a matching subsidy (the Government will add one dollar to every dollar you have) up to $20,000.00, to carry out home improvements.

Q      How can I apply?
A        Fill out an application form and mail it to the Ministry of Housing, 44-46 South Quay Port of Spain. Forms can also be dropped off at the Ministry, the Land Settlement Agency, or the Housing Development Corporation, at the same address; the Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Committee, Cor. Dove and Balisier Ave, Couva or any of HDC’s Regional offices.

Application forms are available in the Daily newspapers or can be collected at the Ministry of Housing or any of its Agencies.

Q        How can I qualify for the IDB Home Improvement Subsidy?
A       You must meet the following criteria in order to qualify for the subsidy:

1.  Your household income must be less than $54,000 annually ($4,500 per month).

2.  You must own the land (or have legal authority to occupy the property).

3.  You must be a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago AND residing here.

4.  You must not have benefited from the Government’s Home Improvement Grant Programme. 

Q     Why didn’t I get a subsidy even after I was interviewed?
A    Applications are entered into a data base and persons who meet the criteria are randomly selected for an interview. If, during the interview it is found that your supporting information does not meet the criteria above, you will not receive a subsidy.
 

Q     When will I get the money?
A     You will be required to use your funds to start the renovations and the subsidy will be disbursed, periodically, when your funds are exhausted.

Q      Do I have to repay this money?
A       No.

Q     What if I don’t have the full matching amount?
A        A combination of savings, labour and materials on site may be considered as part of your matching contribution so it is not absolutely necessary to have the amount in cash.

Q    How will I know when I am successful?
A       Successful applicants will be informed through the mail. Applicants who were interviewed but not successful will also be notified by post. Applicants not drawn in the random selection remain in the data base for future draws.

Q      Is there another similar programme I can access?
A    Yes! The Ministry of Housing’s Home Improvement Grant Programme is similar to the IDB Matching Subsidy EXCEPT it does not require you to have matching funds. It is administered by the Ministry of Housing and is totally funded by the Government. It provides funding up to $15,000.00.

Q      How will I know if I’m successful or not?
A     Applicants who have been selected are interviewed and assessed. After the assessment, successful applicants will be contacted. Letters are sent to unsuccessful persons, indicating the reason for such.

Q      How is the money disbursed?
A     The grant is disbursed in (2) parts:-The first $7,500.00 is given upon the investigation and verification of the proposed repair works. The final payment is disbursed after the investigators view the initial repair works effected and return a satisfactory report.

Q    What if my estimate is over $15,000.00, will I get further assistance?
A       No.

Q      How do I apply for the Home Improvement Grant?
A      Application forms are available at any HDC office.Green Fund