National Land Management Agency: Self-payment for Old House Renovation Not Exceeding 35%, Phased Disbursement Planned

Media reports indicate that inquiries about the central government's 'Old House Renovation Plan' have been enthusiastic, but many people withdraw upon hearing that they still need to pay 35% out of pocket. The National Land Management Agency stated in a press release this evening that to expand the benefits of the old house renovation policy, in addition to renovation subsidies provided by the Ministry of the Interior, resources from subsidy programs of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Ministry of Health and Welfare, as well as shared funds allocated by local governments, can be combined for joint promotion. Therefore, when applying, the self-payment portion will not exceed 35%. The National Land Management Agency stated that the 'Old House Renovation Plan' integrates and connects government resources, encouraging people to review their home's public space and indoor renovation needs, and can submit a complete subsidy application to the government at once, covering both internal and external improvements to ensure measures are in place simultaneously. For seniors aged 65 and above and vulnerable groups, the maximum subsidy limit for indoor safety improvements is increased to NT$300,000 per household, hoping that multiple approaches will enhance the safety and quality of living for citizens through old house renovation. The National Land Management Agency stated that old house renovation is another option besides urban renewal and reconstruction of dangerous old buildings. The subsidy ratio of 65% is already higher than the 50% subsidy for urban renewal and maintenance. Considering the fairness of government resource allocation, citizens still need to bear part of the renovation costs, but local governments can also add subsidies to benefit more people. The National Land Management Agency said that old house renovation is expected to start accepting applications from the public by local governments by the end of May, and the subsidy review will basically be completed within 3 months and approved according to priority principles, and a phased disbursement method will be planned to reduce the burden of advance payments on the public. The National Land Management Agency stated that the Ministry of the Interior will also continue to cooperate with cross-ministerial departments and local governments in the future to review relevant mechanisms in a timely manner, refine subsidy content and application procedures, improve policy promotion effectiveness, and respond to actual social needs. (Editor: Chang Liang-chih) 1150407