Have you ever driven past a crumbling cottage or an abandoned townhouse and thought, “I could turn that into a beautiful home”? If so, Ireland’s Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant might just be the key to bringing your vision to life.
This generous grant scheme, run by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, is designed to help people across Ireland revive empty, derelict, or even previously non-residential properties—turning eyesores into homes and communities back into thriving spaces.
What Is the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant?
In simple terms, it’s financial support for people who want to renovate a vacant or derelict property either to live in or rent out. You can receive:
- Up to €50,000 for a vacant property
- Up to €70,000 for a derelict property
- Even more if the property is located on an offshore island
- An extra €5,000 if you’re restoring a traditional farmhouse and need expert conservation advice
And yes—properties that were never homes before (such as old shops or offices) may qualify too, as long as they have the proper planning permissions.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, you must:
- Own or be in the process of buying the property
- Prove that it’s been vacant for at least 2 years
- Ensure it was built before 2008
- Commit to living in the home or renting it out once renovated
- Have your tax affairs in order
- Not be a company or developer
Each person can avail of the grant twice—once for a home you’ll live in, and once for a home you’ll rent out.
What’s Covered?
The grant covers a wide range of renovation costs including:
- Structural repairs (walls, roofs, chimneys)
- Site clearances and foundations
- Plumbing, heating, and electrical work
- Windows, doors, and rainwater systems
- Kitchen and bathroom fittings
- Painting, decorating, and landscaping
Each category has funding limits, and the work must be approved before it begins. You’ll need quotes and detailed plans to get started.
Please note that energy efficiency upgrades like insulation or heat pumps aren’t covered—but you can apply separately to the SEAI’s Better Energy Homes Scheme.
A Helping Hand: The Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan
If buying a derelict property seems financially out of reach, this new loan scheme launched in July 2024 could help. It’s a two-part loan combining a fixed-rate mortgage and a variable bridging loan (linked to your grant approval).
You must qualify for the refurbishment grant first, and then you can apply for this loan through your local authority.
How to Apply
Here’s a quick overview of the application process
Step 1: Submit the Application
You’ll need:
- Proof of vacancy (like utility bills or an affidavit)
- Proof of ownership or sale agreement
- Planning permission (if needed)
- A quote for the work
- Documentation if claiming the derelict top-up
Step 2: Local Authority Review
They’ll assess your documents and send a professional to inspect the property. If approved, you’ll get a Letter of Approval (or approval in principle).
Step 3: Share Contractor and Payment Info
Provide details about your builder and bank, and submit your invoices.
Step 4: Inspection and Agreement
A final inspection will ensure the work is complete. You’ll sign a charge document securing the grant against the property for 10 years.
Step 5: Payment
Once everything checks out, the grant is paid. If you’re renting, you’ll also need to register with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).
What If Things Change?
If you sell or rent the property differently than you originally said within 10 years, you may have to repay all or part of the grant:
- Less than 5 years: Repay 100%
- 5–10 years: Repay 75%
- After 10 years: No repayment needed
For Traditional Farmhouses: Conservation Advice Grant
If you’re restoring a traditional farmhouse or a protected structure, you can apply for up to €5,000 to get professional conservation advice.
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is not just about bricks and mortar—it’s about rebuilding communities, preserving heritage, and giving people a real chance to create or invest in a home.
Whether you dream of a countryside cottage, a city-centre townhouse, or a unique space with character and history, this grant could help you make it happen.