My Application

Where can I get an application form?

The Local Authority Home Loan application form is available to download here. You may also request a printed copy from your local authority.

Do I have to have a property selected before I apply?

No. You are not required to have a property selected at the time of submitting your application. If you have not identified a property, you can leave the "Details of Property to be Mortgaged" section of the application form blank.

Where do I send my application for a Local Authority Home Loan?

You send your completed application form to the local authority in which you intend to purchase.

Can I apply to more than one local authority?

Yes. You can apply for a Local Authority Home Loan to more than one local authority if you have not yet identified a property to purchase. However, you must complete a separate application form for each local authority you apply to and go through each local authority’s application process. You may only get one Local Authority Home Loan for the purchase of a home or a self-build within the local authority area where you are purchasing or self-building the property.

Do I need to apply for a specified loan amount?

Yes. You are required to have a specified loan amount selected at the time of submitting your application. You must complete the "Mortgage Details" section of the application form.

The Home Loan Calculator will help you estimate the maximum amount you can borrow and afford to repay.

What documentation do I need to provide with my application?

In addition to a fully completed and signed application form, you will need to provide the supporting documentation listed on Appendix 1 in the Information Centre.

A "Checklist for Applicants" is contained within the application form which details all the documentation needed. Your local authority may request further documentation where necessary.

Who makes the decision on my application?

The final decision on your Local Authority Home Loan application is made by your local authority.

What is a valid application?

A Local Authority Home Loan application is considered valid when:

  • the application form is completed in full, with all signatures and consents given and
  • all relevant documentation, as detailed in the "Checklist for Applicants", is provided.

Failure to submit a valid application will result in your application being returned to you, which may cause delays.

How long will it take to get a decision on my application?

Processing of your complete and valid application will take approximately 6-8 weeks. This may vary depending on the local authority or if further information to support your application is sought.

What will I receive from my local authority as part of a decision?

Your local authority will send you a letter confirming its decision. The decision will be a "Decision to Decline" or an "Approval in Principle".

For what reason could my application be declined?

The decision on your application is made by your local authority in accordance with a national credit policy. The credit policy sets out terms and conditions of the Local Authority Home Loan, including eligibility criteria and supporting documentation required. Your application may be declined for one or more reasons. 

How long is an Approval in Principle valid for?

An Approval in Principle is valid for a period of six months from date of issue, subject to the terms and conditions contained therein. The interest rate referred to in an Approval in Principle is indicative and subject to change at any time before the drawdown of a Local Authority Home Loan.

Can I appeal the decision of my local authority on my application?

Yes. Your local authority has an Appeals Procedure in place. 

Where can I get information about my current application?

For information about your current application and its progress, the local authority which you applied to is available to answer any questions you may have. Contact details for your local authority are available here.