Have an old, vacant property in Ireland that’s in need of repair? Don’t let it go to waste – with the government’s Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, you can transform unused properties into vibrant, occupied spaces again.
This grant program provides up to €30,000 in funding to cover 95% of essential renovation costs for properties vacant for over a year. Strict eligibility criteria ensure funds assist owners committed to active use for at least 5 years after renovations.
The grant won’t fund cosmetic upgrades but instead focuses on structural and system repairs to make properties livable once more. Additional support is even available for sensitively restoring traditional farmhouses. If you have an idle property that deserves a new lease on life, this program can make renovations affordable.
Read on to learn more about grant qualifications, covered works, the application process, occupancy obligations and other vital details so you can take advantage of this opportunity.
What is the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant?
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is a grant scheme operated by the Irish government to incentivise bringing unused properties back into productive use. The grant provides funding to assist owners of vacant properties to carry out essential refurbishment works and return the property to active use.
Do I qualify for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant?
To qualify for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, the property must:
- Have been vacant for at least 1 year prior to application
- Be located in an area involved in regeneration, renewal, or rural town programs
- Not be the principal private residence of the applicant
- Have development potential
- Not be subject to any legal proceedings
The applicant must also not have claimed tax relief on refurbishment expenses and intend to ensure the property remains occupied after refurbishment for at least 5 years.
How much is the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant?
The grant will cover up to 95% of the approved cost of refurbishment works up to a maximum of €30,000. The minimum grant is €5,000.
What work is covered?
The grant covers essential refurbishment works required to make the property habitable and safe. This can include but is not limited to:
- Roof repairs
- Chimney repairs
- Window replacement
- Rewiring
- Plumbing upgrades
- Structural repairs
Purely cosmetic work like painting/decorating is not covered.
How do I apply for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant?
To apply, you will need to submit:
- Completed application form
- Proof of property vacancy for over 1 year
- Title documents
- Tax clearance certificate
- Minimum of 2 written quotations for required works
The local authority will assess applications and approve qualifying works. You can begin work once approved.
What happens if my application is not successful?
If your application is unsuccessful, the local authority will provide reasons why. You can reapply if you address the issues outlined in their refusal.
What happens if I don’t want to live in the property or rent it out?
A clawback clause applies if you sell or cease to occupy the property within 5 years of receiving the grant. This means you may have to pay back all or part of the grant.
Grant for conservation advice for refurbishing traditional farmhouses
A separate grant is available to subsidise professional conservation advice for owners refurbishing traditional farmhouses. This covers an architectural assessment and conservation plan for sensitive restoration. The grant covers 100% of fees up to a maximum of €800.
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Property Management Dublin
For almost 25 years KPM Group has been delivering the highest standards in Property Management.
We act for private investors, lenders, as well as domestic and international funds. Sectors of expertise include Private Rental, build-to-rent projects, owner management companies, Local Government agencies and best-in-class Social Housing developments.
For more information on refurbishment grants, contact one of our team today.
