Croí Cónaithe Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant

Last verified October 2026 against the official source ↗.

What is the Croí Cónaithe grant?

The Croí Cónaithe (Vacant Property Refurbishment) Grant is a flagship Irish government initiative to bring vacant and derelict properties back into residential use. Administered through local authorities, it provides substantial grants towards the cost of renovating long-vacant properties that will be used as a principal private residence.

Introduced in 2022 and expanded in subsequent years, the scheme is available nationwide — in cities, towns, and rural areas — and applies whether you already own the property or are purchasing it specifically to renovate.

How much can I get?

• Vacant property (vacant for 2+ years): Up to €50,000
• Derelict property (on Derelict Sites Register): Up to €70,000

The grant covers up to 100% of eligible works costs, subject to the maximum. Eligible works include structural repairs, windows, doors, roofing, plumbing, electrical works, insulation, and fit-out.

Who is eligible?

To qualify for the Croí Cónaithe grant:

• The property must have been vacant for at least 2 continuous years immediately before the application
• You must intend to use the property as your principal private residence for at least 10 years after completion
• The property must be a house or self-contained apartment built before 2008
• You can be the existing owner OR purchasing the property (in this case, the purchase must complete before the grant application)
• The property must be located in the Republic of Ireland

There is no means test — the grant is available regardless of your income.

What works are covered?

• Structural works (foundations, walls, floors, roof)
• Windows and external doors
• Plumbing, heating, and electrical systems
• Insulation and energy efficiency works
• Internal fit-out and finishes
• Septic tank or waste treatment works
• Professional fees (architects, engineers, surveyors) up to 15% of eligible works

How to apply

1. Verify the property has been vacant for 2+ years (utility bills, Eircode records, Vacant Homes Register)
2. Get the property surveyed and obtain quotes for works
3. Submit an application to your local authority's Vacant Homes Officer before works begin
4. Receive provisional grant approval
5. Complete all works using registered contractors
6. Submit completion documentation
7. Receive grant payment after local authority inspection

Processing times vary by local authority. Allow 3–6 months for approval and a further period after works completion for payment.

Can I combine it with other grants?

Yes. The Croí Cónaithe grant can be combined with SEAI energy upgrade grants (Better Energy Homes) on the same property, as long as the SEAI grant application covers energy-specific measures. This means total support could reach €120,000+ for a full renovation including energy upgrades.

Common reasons for rejection

• Vacancy can't be evidenced. The most common issue — you must prove at least 2 continuous years of vacancy (utility records, Eircode/An Post data, GeoDirectory).
• Property built after 2008.
• Not committing to it as a principal private residence (or to make it available for long-term rent) for 10 years.
• Applicant is a company or developer, or has already claimed the grant for two other properties.
• No tax clearance from Revenue, or works started before provisional approval.

What happens if I sell within 10 years?

If you sell the property or cease to use it as your principal private residence within 10 years of the grant being paid, you must repay the grant (or a pro-rata portion). A legal charge is placed on the property as security.

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