Housing Adaptation Grants for People with a Disability

Last verified October 2026 against the official source ↗.

Overview of the three adaptation grants

Irish local authorities administer three separate housing adaptation grants that can be applied for independently or in combination. All three are means-tested and funded primarily by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

1. Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability

The main grant for adapting a home to meet the needs of a person with a physical, sensory, mental health, or intellectual disability. Examples of eligible works include:

• Stair lifts and through-floor lifts
• Wet rooms and accessible bathrooms
• Ground floor bedroom extensions
• Widened doorways and ramps
• Specialist kitchen adaptations

Maximum grant: €30,000 (covers up to 95% of costs for lower-income households)

2. Mobility Aids Housing Grant

For households where a member has a mobility difficulty. Covers minor works to address immediate mobility needs — grab rails, stair rails, half-steps, minor ramp works, and level access showers.

Maximum grant: €6,000 (covers up to 100% of eligible costs for qualifying households)

3. Housing Aid for Older Persons

For older persons (generally 66+) living in poor housing conditions. Covers a range of works to bring the home up to a reasonable standard — roof repairs, windows, doors, heating systems, rewiring, and sanitary facilities.

Maximum grant: €8,000 (covers up to 95% of costs for qualifying households)

Who is eligible?

All three grants require:

• The property must be your principal private residence
• The property must be in need of the adaptation works
• You must apply before works begin
• All three grants are means-tested based on household income

Tenants can apply with landlord consent. Local authority tenants apply through the authority's maintenance department directly.

How to apply

1. Contact your local authority's housing department to request an application form
2. Provide medical evidence of disability (from your GP or occupational therapist)
3. Obtain quotes for the proposed works
4. Submit a completed means-tested application
5. An occupational therapist may visit to assess needs
6. Receive approval and grant offer before starting works
7. Complete works and submit for inspection and payment

How long does it take?

Processing times vary significantly by local authority and current demand. Some authorities process applications within a few months; others have waiting lists. Contact your local authority early if your need is urgent. If waiting is not feasible, contact your occupational therapist or a social worker who may be able to expedite urgent cases.

Common reasons for rejection

• Works started before approval. You must have written approval before beginning.
• Household income over the means-test threshold (grant tapers to zero above €75,000 for the disability/older-persons grants; €30,000 for Mobility Aids).
• No medical / occupational-therapist evidence of the disability or mobility need.
• Not the principal private residence, or tenant applying without landlord consent.
• Property tax / LPT not up to date.

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