Social welfare supports available to householders affected by severe weather

Numerous counties across Ireland are bracing themselves for the effects of Storm Eunice as it arrived in Ireland overnight.

Nationwide weather warnings are in place with gale-force winds, rain, hail and snow expected over the next 24 hours.

Four counties are currently under a red warning - the highest possible alert - with winds of up to 130kmh being recorded.

While damage to the home won't be a reality for most amid Storm Eunice, there will be many properties in coastal areas that could be affected by flooding.

According to Citizens Information, when severe weather causes flooding on a widespread scale, the Department of Social Protection can activate the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme.

Social Welfare supports available to householders affected by severe weather (Stephen Collins/Collins Photos)

This is a heavily income-tested scheme that provides emergency financial assistance to households who are not able to meet costs for essential needs immediately following flooding.

The scheme aims to provide financial support to people who have suffered damage to their home and is also “designed to alleviate hardship rather than provide full compensation for damage.”

Under the scheme, the following supports are available:

• Emergency income support payments
• Damage to your home and its essential contents, such as carpets, flooring, furniture, and household appliances and bedding
• Structural damage may also be considered.

The following things are not covered under the scheme:

• Losses covered by an insurance policy
• Loss of items deemed to be inessential or luxury items
• Commercial and business losses
• Loss or damage to private rented accommodation or local authority accommodation.

How much can be paid to each applicant?

Social Welfare supports available to householders affected by severe weather (PA Images)

Levels of payment depend on the severity of damage and your ability to meet those costs.

If you are in need of structural repairs estimated to be in excess of €5,000, the Department will get advice from a loss adjustor appointed by the Department.

Where there is a need for humanitarian assistance, accounts will be taken of Exceptional Needs Payments and Urgent Needs Payments already being paid out.

To apply for the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme you need to complete the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme application form, which is available online.

Where available you must also include the following with your application:

• Evidence of household income (pay slips etc)
• Estimates for repairs or replacement
• A copy of your insurance policy
• Paid invoices/receipts
• Any other information which may support your claim.