Rainwater capture tax breaks
Some grants and tax breaks are available for recycling rainwater in your home
I WANT to change my drainpipes to be able to collect rainwater and recycle it. Is this covered by grants for environmental home improvements? T.B. Angers
Tax credits (not grants) have been available to cover rainwater recycling systems in your main home since May. The credit is for 25% of the cost of equipment, which must be installed by a professional, deducted from your income tax.
At present, credits are for work paid for between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2009 and you must have an invoice to show this. Currently, the credit is for collecting rainwater off the roof for uses like garden watering and washing the car.
An extension for recycling for use inside the home is expected. There are specifics about what constitutes a suitable set-up: for example installations should have a cover at the top of drainpipes to stop leaves and small animals falling in and a finer filter at the bottom before the storage tank.
The installations should not cost more than €8,000 for an individual or €16,00 for a couple (with €400 extra per child). Consult your local tax office for help. Note also that some mairies and departmental and regional councils may offer grants.
