Ireland is full of hidden gems—vacant homes waiting to be brought back to life. If you’ve ever dreamed of restoring a fixer-upper into your dream home, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant might be just the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an investor with an eye for potential, this government scheme offers up to €70,000 to help transform empty, derelict houses into modern, liveable homes.
What is the vacant property refurbishment grant?
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is a government initiative launched to bring unused properties back into Ireland’s housing supply. Under the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund, eligible applicants can receive:
- 🏚️ Up to €50,000 to refurbish a vacant property
- 🧱 Up to €70,000 for derelict properties that require more extensive work
The grant is designed to boost housing availability, revitalise communities, and reduce vacancy rates—especially in towns, villages, and rural areas across Ireland.
Who is eligible for the house refurbishment grant?
Before applying for the house refurbishment grant, it’s important to understand the key eligibility requirements. These criteria help ensure that the grant supports those genuinely committed to revitalising vacant homes and making them liveable once again.
To apply, you must:
- Be planning to live in the property as your main residence
- Be a home buyer, homeowner, or someone returning to Ireland
- Own the property or be actively purchasing it
- Commit to living in the property for at least 10 years
- Ensure the property has been vacant for at least 2 years
Are Rental Properties included?
Yes. The aim of the vacant property refurbishment grant is to help bring vacant and derelict properties back into the residential market. The scheme is also available to landlords who want to bring a derelict or vacant property back into the residential letting market.
Types of properties that qualify
If you’re considering applying for the property refurbishment grant, it’s important to know what kinds of properties are eligible. You can apply for the grant if the property:
- Has been vacant for 2 years or more
- Was built before 2008
- Is structurally sound or can be made habitable through renovation
- Is located in a town, village, city centre, or rural setting
Even derelict properties with no roof or major damage may qualify for the higher €70,000 grant, as long as they meet basic criteria.
Key benefits of the refurbishment grants in Ireland
The benefits of the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant go beyond financial support—they help revitalise communities, boost housing availability, and promote more sustainable building practices across the country. The benefits include:
Financial assistance for home restoration
The property refurbishment grant significantly reduces the financial burden of renovating, making it more accessible for buyers with limited budgets.
Impact on local communities and housing availability
Bringing vacant homes back into use helps revitalise local communities, increases housing stock, and reduces pressure on new developments.
Environmental and sustainability advantages
Re-using existing buildings is often more environmentally friendly than new builds, supporting Ireland’s sustainability goals.
How to apply for the vacant property refurbishment grant
To make the most of Ireland’s Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, it’s important to understand the steps involved and prepare the necessary documents. Here’s how to apply for the grant and what to expect throughout the process.
Step-by-step guide to the application process
Applying for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant involves several key steps, from checking eligibility to claiming your payment. Follow this step-by-step guide to navigate the process smoothly and avoid delays.
- Check eligibility – Confirm the property is vacant and meets the criteria
- Get a property assessment – A building survey helps estimate refurbishment costs
- Apply to your local authority – Each county council manages its own applications
- Provide cost estimates – You’ll need builders quotes for the proposed work
- Get conditional approval – If approved, you’ll receive a letter of offer
- Complete the works – You must finish the refurbishment within 13 months
- Claim your grant – Submit final invoices and proof of works for payment
Required documentation
To support your application, you’ll need to provide specific documents that show you meet the criteria and have planned the refurbishment work. Make sure to gather the following before submitting your application for the refurbishment grant:
- Proof of property ownership or sale agreement
- Photos of the property
- Quotes from contractors
- Completed application form from your local authority
Deadlines and processing times
There is no fixed deadline to apply for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (also known as the house refurbishment grant), but funding is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications are assessed on a rolling basis by your local authority, and processing times can vary—approval may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on demand and the completeness of your submission.
Common challenges and how to overcome them
While the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant offers valuable support, applicants may encounter a few hurdles along the way. Being aware of these common challenges—and knowing how to address them—can help you avoid delays and keep your project on track.
Issues applicants may face
🧾 Missing documents or incomplete forms
🛠️ Underestimating costs or scope of work
🕒 Delays in approval or construction timelines
Tips for a smooth application process
To increase your chances of approval and avoid delays, a bit of preparation can go a long way. These practical tips will help you navigate the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant process more smoothly from start to finish.
- Hire a qualified surveyor or architect to guide you
- Include realistic and detailed quotes
- Stay in regular contact with your local authority
- Apply as early as possible to secure your place in the queue
Securing financing alongside the vacant property refurbishment grant
The house refurbishment grant helps cover renovation costs—but what about the property purchase itself?
That’s where MortgageLine comes in.
We help homebuyers:
✅ Understand how much you can borrow for a mortgage in Ireland
✅ Get approved for first time buyer mortgages
✅ Collect all documents required for mortgage
✅ Understand how long it takes to get a mortgage approved
Our expert brokers can guide you through combining mortgage finance with the grant, ensuring your renovation dreams become a reality—without unnecessary stress.
FAQs
What is the refurbishment grant in Ireland?
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant offers up to €50,000 to refurbish vacant properties and up to €70,000 to renovate derelict homes into liveable residences. It’s part of Ireland’s plan to bring more homes into use.
Do you need to return the vacant property refurbishment grant?
No. The grant is not repayable, as long as you meet the conditions—such as living in the home for 10 years. If you sell the property before then, some or all of the grant may need to be repaid.
Final Thoughts
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is a fantastic opportunity for buyers across Ireland to restore old properties and create beautiful, modern homes—while saving tens of thousands in the process.
Ready to turn a run-down house into your dream home?
💬 Contact MortgageLine today for expert help with your mortgage and advice on combining financing with the vacant property refurbishment grant.
