Grants for Old Houses Ireland: Our Guide to Securing Funds

Table of Contents

Homeowners in Ireland can access various grant schemes to renovate older properties, helping to preserve architectural heritage. Key options include the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (up to €50,000), the Conservation Advice Grant (up to €5,000), and the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (up to €15,000). This guide provides an overview of available grants, application processes, and tips for success.

Quick Overview

Grants for doing up old houses

Grant Name Amount
Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Up to €50,000 for vacant properties, €70,000 for derelict properties
Conservation Advice Grant Scheme Up to €5,000 (67% of costs)
Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) Up to €15,000
Historic Structures Fund €15,000 – €200,000
Traditional Farm Buildings Grant €4,000 – €30,000 (up to 75% of costs)
Thatching Grant Up to €3,810 (2/3 of approved cost)
Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability Up to €30,000 (95% of cost)

1. Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant

Amount: Up to €50,000 for vacant properties, €70,000 for derelict properties
Website: https://www.gov.ie/en/service/56ef8-vacant-property-refurbishment-grant/
Application: Through your local authority

This grant aims to revitalise communities by bringing empty properties back into use. It’s an excellent option for those looking to renovate an old house for personal use or as a rental property.

Eligibility:

  • Properties must be vacant for 2+ years
  • Built before 2007
  • Must be used as primary residence or for rent

Tips:

  • Prioritize properties in areas with high vacancy rates
  • Ensure clear documentation of the vacancy period
  • Prepare a detailed refurbishment plan

2. Conservation Advice Grant Scheme

Amount: Up to €5,000 (67% of costs)
Website: https://www.gov.ie/en/service/7241b-conservation-advice-grant-scheme-for-vacant-traditional-houses/
Application: Form available on the website

This scheme provides funding for expert conservation advice, helping owners make informed decisions about renovating their traditional properties.

Eligibility:

  • Stream 1: Protected structures or historic buildings in towns/cities
  • Stream 2: Vacant traditional farmhouses

Tips:

  • Applications typically open in July annually
  • Engage a qualified conservation expert early in the process

3. Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS)

Amount: Up to €15,000
Application: Through local authority (usually November-January)

The BHIS supports small-scale conservation projects for protected structures and buildings in Architectural Conservation Areas.

Tips:

  • Prepare a detailed conservation plan
  • Demonstrate the historical significance of the property

4. Historic Structures Fund

Amount: €15,000 – €200,000
Website: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/7d518-historic-structures-fund-hsf/
Application: Through local authority

This fund targets larger conservation projects for protected structures and heritage properties.

Tips:

  • Focus on projects with significant heritage value
  • Prepare a comprehensive conservation management plan

5. Traditional Farm Buildings Grant

Amount: €4,000 – €30,000 (up to 75% of costs)
Website: https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/projects/traditional-farm-buildings-grant-scheme
Application: Online through the Heritage Council website.

This grant supports the conservation of traditional farm buildings and structures for farmers participating in the Green Low-Carbon Agri-Environment Scheme (GLAS).

Tips:

  • Emphasize the historical and architectural significance of the farm buildings
  • Demonstrate how conservation will benefit biodiversity

6. Thatching Grant

Amount: Up to €3,810 (2/3 of approved cost)
Application: Through local authority.

This grant assists owners of thatched houses in maintaining their traditional roofs.

Tips:

  • Use approved thatching materials and techniques
  • Get quotes from multiple qualified thatchers

Application Process and General Tips

  1. Research thoroughly: Each grant has specific eligibility criteria and application procedures. Study these carefully before applying.
  2. Prepare documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of ownership, photographs, and detailed project plans.
  3. Seek professional advice: Consult with conservation architects or heritage officers for expert guidance.
  4. Start early: Many grants have annual deadlines, so begin the application process well in advance.
  5. Be realistic: Renovating old houses often involves unexpected challenges. Budget for contingencies and be prepared for potential delays.
  6. Combine grants: Where possible, look into combining multiple home improvement grants for larger projects.
  7. Follow guidelines strictly: Adhere to all conservation guidelines and planning regulations to avoid complications.
  8. Keep detailed records: Maintain thorough documentation of all communications, expenditures, and work carried out.

Statistics and Success Rates

As of 2024:

  • The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant has received over 3,000 applications since its inception.
  • The Built Heritage Investment Scheme supports approximately 450 projects annually.
  • The Historic Structures Fund typically assists 50-70 projects each year.

While success rates vary depending on the grant and the number of applicants, well-prepared applications that clearly demonstrate the project’s alignment with the grant’s objectives have the best chance of approval.

Common Rejection Reasons for Old House Grant Applications

Incomplete or Inaccurate Application

Many applications are rejected simply because they are not filled out correctly or completely. It’s imperative we double-check all details before submitting our grant application to avoid these pitfalls.

Tips to avoid:

  • Double-check all fields are filled
  • Ensure all required documents are attached
  • Have someone else review your application for errors

Failure to Meet Eligibility Criteria

Each grant has specific eligibility requirements that must be met.

Common issues:

  • Property not old enough for the specific grant
  • Insufficient proof of vacancy period
  • Proposed works not aligned with grant objectives

Inadequate Project Planning

Vague or poorly thought-out project plans are often rejected.

How to improve:

  • Provide detailed, itemized cost estimates
  • Include a clear timeline for completion
  • Demonstrate how the project aligns with conservation best practices

Lack of Heritage Significance

For heritage-specific grants, failing to demonstrate the historical importance of the property can lead to rejection.

Tips:

  • Research and document the history of your property
  • Highlight unique architectural features
  • Explain how your project will preserve these elements

Conclusion

Renovating an old house in Ireland can be a rewarding experience, both personally and for the community. These grants provide valuable financial support to help preserve Ireland’s architectural heritage. By carefully researching options, preparing thorough applications, and following conservation best practices, you can increase your chances of securing funding for your restoration project.Remember to always check the most current information on official websites, as grant details and availability can change. Your local authority may also have additional, area-specific grants available, so don’t hesitate to reach out to them for more information.

Author

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Max
Max is the co-founder and main author at RenovationDublin.ie. With over a decade of experience in the home improvement industry, he has helped scale some of Ireland's leading home remodel & construction companies, enhancing their online brand visibility.

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