For homeowners across Ireland
Planning, extension and renovation advice — start with the right next step.
Thinking about extending your home, converting an attic, resolving a planning question or restoring an old property? Tell us what you're planning. HomeUpgrade reviews your enquiry and can help you find appropriate technical advice or professional support.
Know what you're paying for
Your first enquiry costs nothing. If your project needs drawings, a registered architect, an engineer, a planning consultant or another specialist, we'll explain what the provider can do. Any paid work is quoted separately.
HomeUpgrade.ie is an independent introduction and information service, not a statutory planning authority or a registered architectural practice.
Common projects
What do you want to do with your home?
House extensions
Is your extension feasible? What drawings, approvals and professionals might you need?
Read the guidePlanning permission
Find out how to approach an application, a planning question or a rejected proposal.
Read the guideAttic conversions
Understand the difference between planning permission, structural requirements and building regulations.
Read the guideVacant-home renovations
Plan renovation works, possible grants, surveys and the right order to engage professionals.
Read the guideHow it works
Tell us about your project
Choose the work, county, timeframe and describe what you hope to achieve. No charge.
We review your enquiry
HomeUpgrade checks the details and identifies which type of advice or professional could help.
Choose how to proceed
If a paid consultation or professional introduction makes sense, we explain the provider, scope and price before you decide.
Start here
Tell us about your plans, step by step.
Four quick steps to help us understand what you're looking for. We'll review the details and discuss the next steps. Your initial enquiry is free.
Depending on the project, we may be able to introduce experienced designers, engineers, building surveyors, planning consultants or registered architects. Any professional introduction requires your permission; fees and scope are agreed separately.
Frequently asked questions
Is submitting an enquiry free?
Yes. The initial enquiry is free. If a professional consultation, drawings or a paid service is suitable, the provider, scope and price are explained before you decide.
Can HomeUpgrade arrange a registered architect?
We may be able to introduce a suitably qualified independent professional, including a registered architect where needed. No specific architect or availability is guaranteed. Any appointment and fees are agreed with that professional.
Is planning permission always needed for a house extension?
Not always. Some extensions may qualify as exempted development, but exemptions depend on the site, existing extensions, floor areas, protected status and other conditions. Seek project-specific confirmation before building.
Will you share my details automatically?
No. We contact you about your enquiry. Sharing with another professional is separate and optional; we explain the referral and check your permission before sharing details.
Do you guarantee that my project is compliant or grant-eligible?
No. Your local planning authority, statutory requirements and suitably qualified professionals determine what applies to your project. HomeUpgrade provides preliminary guidance and introductions only.
Explore our vacant and derelict property guides or check SEAI grant options.