Renovating a Vacant or Derelict House in Ireland: Planning Your Project

Step 1

Start with the building and ownership

Confirm ownership and title information, the building condition and any obvious structural or access issues. A professional survey can expose risks not visible in photographs.

Step 2

Understand the grants without assuming eligibility

Croí Cónaithe or other available supports have specific property and applicant conditions. Your local authority and the official scheme documents determine the final eligibility and application requirements. Funding approval and grant payments may depend on timing and evidence.

Step 3

Check planning, change of use and protected status

Alterations, extensions, conversions and changes of use can trigger planning requirements. Protected or historic buildings may need specialist advice. Do not start grant-funded work before the relevant scheme and permissions allow it.

Step 4

Build a realistic phased budget

Allow for surveys, design work, structural repairs, services, drainage, energy upgrades, professional fees and contingency. A simple renovation total based on square metres alone can miss major risks.

Step 5

Bring together the right people

A suitable project could involve an engineer, registered architect, building surveyor, planning consultant, energy assessor and experienced contractor. Confirm credentials, insurance and responsibilities before appointment.

Your checklist before starting

Confirm ownership and property history.
Arrange a condition and structural review if appropriate.
Check local authority and grant scheme conditions.
Establish planning and building-control requirements.
Agree scope, costs, sequencing and professional responsibilities.

Common questions

Can I combine the vacant-home grant and SEAI grants?

Possibly for different eligible works, subject to current rules and avoiding double funding of the same items. Seek written confirmation from the administering bodies.

When should I get an engineer involved?

Before committing to extensive works where structural condition, damp, floors, roof or foundations may create significant cost or safety risks.

Can HomeUpgrade review a property before I purchase it?

You can describe the property and your plans. A professional pre-purchase assessment, if needed, would be separately scoped and quoted.

Official resources and further reading

General information only, not a professional assessment or official planning determination. Requirements and exemptions may change. Check with your local authority and an appropriately qualified professional before starting works.