The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant provides funding for turning a vacant or derelict building into your home. This grant is obtained through Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund and is administered by local authorities.
In May 2023, the grant amount to refurbish a vacant property was increased up to €50,000. A top-up grant of up to an additional €20,000 is also available for derelict properties, which are deemed to be structurally unsound and dangerous. A condition assessment report completed by a qualified professional is required in order to obtain this top-up grant.
If the property is on an offshore island, the maximum rates of the grants are increased by 20% for vacant and derelict properties, up to €60,000 and €84,000 respectively.
The grant can also be used for properties which have not previously been used for residential purposes, provided that the non-residential property now has the correct planning permission.
In order to obtain the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, the property must have been built before 2008 and have been vacant for at least 2 years. You must own or be in the process of purchasing the property, tax clearance from Revenue must be obtained and the applicant cannot be a registered company or a developer.
You can obtain this grant whether you intend to live in the property, or register with the Residential Tenancies Board and make the property available for rent. You can only apply for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant twice.
If you do not live in the property or rent it out for at least 10 years after obtaining the grant, you will have repay a portion of the grant received.
If you are looking to purchase a vacant or derelict property, you can speak to one of our conveyancing solicitors at McElhinney & Associates, Drumboe Lodge, Stranorlar, Co. Donegal on 074 91 75989 or admin@mcelhinneyassociates.com
*In contentious business a Solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement
**This information is for guidance purposes only. It does not constitute legal or professional advice. Professional or legal advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from any action as a result of the contents of this publication. No liability is accepted by McElhinney & Associates for any action taken in reliance on the information contained herein. Any and all information is subject to change.
About the Authors
Jolene McElhinney, BBLS, Principal Solicitor
Jolene McElhinney is the founding principal of McElhinney & Associates, renowned for her expertise in employment law and personal injury claims across the North West of Ireland. With a distinguished academic background and over a decade of experience, Jolene is dedicated to providing personalised, expert support to her clients, ensuring they navigate the complexities of the legal landscape with confidence and clarity.
