Installing, modernising or making a lift accessible is one of those projects decided at the owners’ meeting, where the same words always come up: special levy. What many people don’t know is that a good number of these projects may qualify for public funding. Here’s what is subsidised in Catalonia and how to apply.
What can be subsidised
Grants are usually aimed at improving the accessibility and energy efficiency of buildings. In practice, that includes work such as:
- Installing a lift in a building that doesn’t have one.
- Adapting the lift so that it reaches street level or removes barriers.
- Installing stairlifts, platform lifts or home lifts for accessibility.
- Modernising the lift to make it more efficient.
What grants are available in Catalonia
In Catalonia there are several routes: the Generalitat‘s renovation and accessibility programmes, calls for applications from town councils (many cities have their own schemes) and national and European housing renovation funds. Amounts, deadlines and requirements change with each call, so the key is knowing which ones you’re eligible for and not missing the deadlines.
We’ll tell you which grants your building is eligible for and what you need to apply. You’ll find the details on our grants in Catalonia page.
How to apply: the steps
- 1. Identify the call that fits your project and its deadlines.
- 2. Gather the documents for the building and the quote for the work.
- 3. Submit the application before the deadline (many are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis).
- 4. Carry out and document the work in line with the grant’s conditions.
Public grants + financing: no more paying a special levy all at once
The grant covers part of the cost; the rest doesn’t have to be paid in one go. By combining the grant with financing in instalments, the community spreads the cost and nobody has to put down several thousand euros at once. Almost always, that’s what unblocks the vote at the owners’ meeting.
Mistakes that rule you out
- Starting the work before the grant has been awarded (many require that work hasn’t started).
- Applying after the deadline or with incomplete documentation.
- Not keeping invoices and receipts for the claim stage.
If you’re bringing your lift into line with the new ITC, it’s a good time to look into grants: much of the work overlaps.
Shall we talk about your lift?
We review your case, tell you clearly what makes sense for you and prepare a tailored proposal, with no obligation.