Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 June 2025
102. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will consider reducing the time necessity from two years to one year for vacant properties to qualify for the vacant homes grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33100/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraPathway 4 of Housing for All sets out a blueprint to address vacancy and make efficient use of our existing housing stock.
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant introduced in July 2022, provides a grant of up to €50,000 for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence and for properties which will be made available for rent. A top-up grant of up to €20,000 is available where the property is confirmed to be derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €70,000.
In order to qualify for the grant, the property must be vacant for two years or more at the time of application. Proof of vacancy is required to support grant applications.
The objective of the grant is to support the refurbishment of vacant and derelict properties, bringing them back into use as homes. The grant is administered and managed by local authorities, who process and decide on applications and issue grant payments on completion of approved refurbishment works.
A review of the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant was undertaken in 2024. That review has been completed and is under consideration.
