The existing Scheme of Assistance now includes the Missing Share Scheme, a new initiative designed to address common delays in tenement and flatted property repairs. This scheme aims to help owners progress essential works on shared parts of buildings, such as roofs, gutters, and external walls, especially when one or more owners are unable or unwilling to pay their share, or cannot be traced.
Under the scheme's requirements, the Council may cover the outstanding shared costs owed by non-contributing owners. Councillor Carol Hamilton, Executive Member for Housing and Culture, highlighted the initiative's potential to overcome repair barriers. She stated, “We recognise that owners in tenement buildings can face difficulties progressing essential common repairs when other owners are unwilling or unable to contribute. This can cause significant delays or prevent necessary works from taking place.”
Councillor Hamilton added, “We hope that the Missing Share Scheme will allow important repair works to proceed and contribute to our wider aim of improving housing conditions across our local communities.”
To be eligible for support, a majority of owners must agree to the proposed works and confirm that correct procedures have been followed for approving repairs and sharing costs, as typically outlined in property title deeds or governed by the Tenement (Scotland) Act 2004.
The Council encourages owners to get in touch early to access support and ensure they meet the scheme's requirements. Advice is available on arranging common repairs, liaising with fellow owners, and progressing projects. Owners can also utilise the Novoville Shared Repairs app to coordinate with neighbours, track progress, and securely collect payments.
