Who qualifies for the RAS Scheme?

You will qualify for the scheme if you are receiving a rent supplement under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance Scheme for 18 months or more and you are assessed by the local authority to have a long-term housing need. People with short-term needs will continue to receive rent supplement.

The RAS does not apply to:

• asylum seekers
• non-nationals who do not have leave to remain in the State permanently

How does the Rental Accommodation Scheme work?

Under the RAS the local authority will secure suitable accommodation and will pay rent to the landlord directly. You will still contribute to the rent but you will pay a rent to the local authority, not your landlord. Over time your contribution will be based on the Local Authority's differential rent scheme.

How will the scheme benefit me?

The RAS will give you long-term housing security. It will also give you access to a range of housing supports. The RAS will also lead to improvements in the quality and standards of private rented accommodation as your local authority will make sure that any accommodation offered to you will suit your needs and meet their housing standards.

Finally, if you get a job you can stay in the scheme but you will have to contribute more towards the rent.

Will I have to move to new accommodation?

You will not have to move if:

• the quality of your current accommodation meets your local authority's standards;
• your landlord is registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB);
• your landlord agrees to move to the RAS, and your landlord is tax compliant.

The vast majority of applicants will not have to move from their present accommodation, as every effort will be made to negotiate with their landlord.

What if my landlord doesn't agree to move to RAS?

Every effort will be made to negotiate with the landlord but failing this the Local Authority and Applicant may source alternative accommodation. If suitable accommodation is not available immediately, you may stay in your current accommodation and continue to receive rent supplement until such time as suitable accommodation is available for you. You have the option of refusing two offers of alternative accommodation (for valid reasons).

When should I contact the Local Authority?

Your local authority will contact you as soon as they receive data from the Department of Social Protection that you are in receipt of rent allowance for over 18 months and an application form must be completed.

A housing officer in the local authority will then arrange to discuss your housing needs with you. If you are transferring to the RAS in your current accommodation, the local authority will inspect it and make arrangements with your landlord.

Does the RAS affect my rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 - 2015

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2004 - 2015 protects the rights of private rented sector tenants after a period of six months. The RAS scheme will not affect your rights under this law.

Where can I get more information?

For more information about the Rental Accommodation Scheme please contact ras@roscommoncoco.ie or 090 6637100.

For information about the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme please contact:

The Community Welfare Officer at your local Health Service Executive. See the green pages of your phone book for contact details or contact:

Supplementary Welfare Allowance Section

Department of Social Protection,

Áras Mhic Dhiarmada,

Store Street,

Dublin 1

Telephone: (01) 704 3000