Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant gives up to €50,000 to refurbish a vacant property, or up to €70,000 if it's derelict, so it can be lived in or rented out. It's run by your local council, and you need approval before starting work.
- Up to €50,000 for vacant properties
- Up to €70,000 if derelict
- To live in or to rent out
- Run by your local council
How much is the grant?
| Property | Maximum grant |
|---|---|
| Vacant property | €50,000 |
| Derelict property | €70,000 |
The grant can be combined with SEAI energy grants for insulation, heat pumps and windows. Check the current rules on how the two interact.
Who qualifies?
Broadly, the property must have been vacant for a minimum period and built before a set date, and you must intend to live in it or rent it out once refurbished. The exact conditions, including how long it must have been vacant and the build date, are set out by your council and Citizens Information, so check them before you buy or plan works.
A council inspection usually confirms the property is vacant, or derelict for the higher grant.
What the grant can cover
- Structural repairs, roofs and walls
- Rewiring and replumbing
- New heating systems
- Windows, doors and insulation
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Making the property safe and habitable
Refurbishing a vacant property usually involves several trades. A builder who can coordinate the whole job, and who understands the grant paperwork, makes the process much easier.
How to apply, step by step
- Check the property qualifies with your council.
- Apply to the council, usually online, with proof of ownership and vacancy.
- Arrange the council inspection.
- Get detailed quotes for the works.
- Wait for approval before starting.
- Complete the works and claim the grant with your invoices.
Mistakes to avoid: starting work before approval, underestimating the scope of an old property, and not checking structural issues early.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the vacant property grant?
Up to €50,000 for a vacant property, or up to €70,000 if it's derelict.
Can I rent the property out afterwards?
Yes. The grant can be used for properties you'll live in or rent out, subject to the conditions.
Can I combine it with SEAI grants?
Often, yes. Check the current rules on how the grants combine.
Who decides if a property is derelict?
The council, usually after an inspection.
Do I apply before buying the property?
Check eligibility before buying. Applications are usually made once you own the property.
Can I start work before approval?
No. Work started before approval usually can't be funded.
Find vetted contractors for this work
By area:
- North Dublin City: Artane, Cabra, Clontarf, Coolock, Drumcondra, East Wall, Fairview, Glasnevin, Phibsborough, Stoneybatter
- Dún Laoghaire & South Coast: Blackrock, Booterstown, Monkstown, Dún Laoghaire, Dalkey, Killiney
- Dublin North Coast: Raheny, Baldoyle, Donaghmede, Howth, Sutton, Portmarnock, Malahide
- South West Dublin: Tallaght, Citywest, Firhouse, Knocklyon, Ballyboden, Templeogue, Walkinstown, Kimmage, Rathfarnham, Terenure
- West Dublin & Leixlip: Chapelizod, Palmerstown, Lucan, Leixlip, Adamstown, Clondalkin
- Dublin 15: Blanchardstown, Castleknock, Mulhuddart, Ongar, Hansfield, Ashtown
- South Dublin City: Ballsbridge, Donnybrook, Sandymount, Ranelagh, Rathgar, Harold's Cross, Churchtown, Dundrum
- Stillorgan, Sandyford & Foxrock: Mount Merrion, Stillorgan, Goatstown, Sandyford, Cherrywood, Cabinteely, Foxrock, Deansgrange
- North County Dublin: Swords, Lusk, Rush, Skerries
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