What Is the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant?
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is an Irish government scheme designed to bring empty and derelict properties back into use as homes. It can help eligible applicants pay for renovation work when they want to live in the property or make it available to rent.
The scheme is administered through local authorities and funded under the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. It applies to qualifying properties in cities, towns, villages and rural areas across Ireland.
The grant can make renovating an older property more affordable, but approval is not automatic. Applicants must meet the eligibility conditions, provide supporting documents and receive approval before starting the work.
Official information: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/vacant-property-refurbishment-grant/
How Much Is the Vacant Property Grant in Ireland?
The standard grant amounts are:
- Vacant property: Up to €50,000.
- Derelict property: Up to €70,000, including a top-up of up to €20,000 for a qualifying derelict property.
- Eligible offshore-island property: Higher limits may apply, up to €60,000 for a vacant property or €84,000 for a derelict property.
These are maximum amounts, not guaranteed payments. The local authority assesses the proposed work, eligible costs and supporting evidence before determining the grant amount. The grant includes VAT on the approved works. <Cite refs={[“turn881514search0″,”turn881514search2”]}/>
Who Is Eligible for the Vacant Property Grant?
To qualify for the standard Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, you generally must meet the following requirements.
1. The property must be vacant for at least two years
You need evidence that the property has been vacant for at least two years immediately before your application. The local authority may request documents such as utility records or other evidence to establish vacancy.
2. The property must have been built before 2008
The property must meet the scheme’s construction-date requirements. Check the rules with your local authority if you are unsure when the building was constructed.
3. You must own the property or be buying it
You must provide proof of ownership or evidence that you are actively negotiating to purchase the property.
4. You must use it as a home or make it available for rent
The property must be refurbished for use as your principal private residence or to be made available for rent. If you plan to rent it, you must comply with the applicable tenancy registration requirements, including registration with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).
5. Your tax affairs must be in order
Applicants generally need tax clearance where required under the scheme and must have paid Local Property Tax if applicable.
6. You cannot apply as a registered company or developer
The standard scheme is intended for eligible individual applicants rather than registered companies or property developers. <Cite refs={[“turn881514search0″,”turn881514search2”]}/>
What Renovation Work Does the Grant Cover?
The grant may support eligible refurbishment work needed to make a property suitable for residential use. Depending on the approved project, this can include:
- Structural repairs and necessary building work.
- Roof repairs and replacement of eligible components.
- Windows and external doors.
- Plumbing, heating and electrical services.
- Insulation-related work where eligible under the scheme.
- Kitchen units and bathroom fittings.
- Internal finishes, painting and decorating.
- Certain necessary external works and professional fees.
Not every item or quoted cost will automatically qualify. Local authorities apply limits to different categories of work and assess whether the costs are reasonable. Completely demolishing a property and rebuilding a new one is not covered by the standard grant. <Cite refs={[“turn881514search2”]}/>
What Documents Do You Need?
Prepare your documents before submitting an application. Depending on your property and project, you may need:
- Completed application form.
- Proof of ownership or evidence of active purchase negotiations.
- Evidence that the property has been vacant for at least two years.
- Detailed quotations for the proposed renovation work.
- An independent professional report confirming that the property is structurally unsound and dangerous, if applying for the derelict top-up.
- Confirmation that the property is on the Derelict Sites Register, where relevant.
- Other documents requested by your local authority.
Ask your local authority for its current checklist because additional evidence may be required.
How to Apply for the Vacant Property Grant
Follow these steps to apply.
Step 1: Contact your local authority. Contact the council responsible for the area where the property is located and ask for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant application details.
Step 2: Check your eligibility. Confirm the property’s age, vacancy period, intended use and your eligibility as an applicant.
Step 3: Arrange quotations. Obtain detailed estimates for the proposed renovation work. If the property is derelict, arrange the required professional assessment.
Step 4: Submit your application. Complete the correct application form and include the required supporting documents.
Step 5: Wait for approval. Do not begin grant-funded work until you have received approval and confirmed the conditions with your local authority.
Step 6: Complete the approved renovation. Keep invoices, receipts and other evidence of the work and costs.
Step 7: Complete the final checks. The local authority may inspect the property and require you to sign a charge document before payment. You must meet the scheme’s occupancy or rental conditions.
You can start at the official government page: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/vacant-property-refurbishment-grant/
Can You Combine This Grant With SEAI Grants?
You may be able to receive support through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) for eligible energy-efficiency improvements, such as solar panels or insulation.
However, the same energy-upgrade work cannot be funded by both schemes. If you plan to apply to SEAI as well, tell your local authority grant officer and confirm which scheme should fund each part of the project before work begins.
SEAI information: https://www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/vacant-derelict-homes <Cite refs={[“turn881514search6”]}/>
Important Things to Check Before Applying
Before committing to a vacant property, estimate the total renovation cost and make sure you can cover expenses that exceed the grant. Check planning permission, building regulations, structural condition and any additional professional fees.
Also ask your local authority about the conditions attached to the grant. You may have to live in the property or maintain it as a registered rental for the required period. Failing to meet the conditions can result in repayment obligations.
Conclusion
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Ireland scheme can help eligible people bring empty and derelict homes back into use. The standard maximum is €50,000, increasing to €70,000 for a qualifying derelict property, with higher limits possible for eligible offshore-island properties.
Check the two-year vacancy requirement, property age, ownership rules and documentation before applying. Contact your local authority and obtain approval before starting renovation work.
