How to Maximise Your Grant: Combining Supports for a Bigger Budget

Renovating a property in Ireland can be a substantial financial undertaking. However, by strategically combining available grants, homeowners can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Two notable grants—the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) energy upgrade grants—can be leveraged together to maximize your renovation budget.

Understanding the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant

The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant aims to incentivize the refurbishment of vacant and derelict properties. Eligible applicants can receive up to €50,000 for renovating a vacant property and up to €70,000 for a derelict one. These grants are inclusive of VAT and are available to those planning to occupy the property as their principal residence or to rent it out.

Eligibility Criteria:

• The property must have been vacant for at least two years and built before 2007.
• Applicants must provide proof of ownership or evidence of active negotiations to purchase the property.
• The property must be intended for use as the applicant’s principal private residence or as a rental property.

Application Process:

1. Contact Your Local Authority: Reach out to your local authority’s Vacant Homes Officer for guidance.
2. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Application Form.
3. Submit Required Documentation: Provide proof of ownership, evidence of vacancy, and any other necessary documents.
4. Await Approval: The local authority will assess your application and notify you of the decision.

Exploring SEAI Energy Upgrade Grants

The SEAI offers various grants to improve the energy efficiency of homes, making them warmer and more cost-effective to run. These grants cover upgrades such as insulation, heating controls, and renewable energy systems.

Available Grants:

• Insulation Grants: Funding for attic, wall, and floor insulation to reduce heat loss.
• Heating Control Grants: Support for installing advanced heating controls to enhance energy efficiency.
• Heat Pump System Grants: Assistance for replacing traditional heating systems with energy-efficient heat pumps.
• Solar PV Grants: Incentives for installing solar photovoltaic panels to generate electricity.

Eligibility Criteria:

• The property must be located in the Republic of Ireland.
• Applicants must own the property and built and occupied it before certain years, depending on the grant type.
• The property must achieve specific energy efficiency ratings after the upgrades.

Application Process:

1. Select an SEAI Registered Contractor: Choose a contractor from the SEAI’s registered list.
2. Apply for the Grant: Submit your application through the SEAI’s online system or by post.
3. Receive Grant Approval: Wait for approval before commencing any work.
4. Complete the Upgrades: Have the registered contractor carry out the approved energy upgrades.
5. Claim the Grant: After the work is completed, submit the Declaration of Works and Request for Payment forms to receive the grant.

Combining Both Grants for Maximum Benefit

Homeowners can apply for both the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and SEAI energy upgrade grants, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for each. By doing so, you can address structural refurbishments and enhance energy efficiency simultaneously, leading to a more comfortable and cost-effective home.

Steps to Combine Grants:

1. Assess Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for both grants.
2. Plan Renovations Accordingly: Incorporate energy-efficient upgrades into your refurbishment plans.
3. Coordinate Applications: Apply for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant through your local authority and SEAI grants through the SEAI’s application process.
4. Manage Timelines: Align the renovation schedule to comply with both grant requirements.

Important Considerations:

• Grant Approval Before Work: Obtain approval for each grant before starting any related work.
• Registered Contractors: Use SEAI-registered contractors for energy upgrades to qualify for SEAI grants.
• Documentation: Maintain thorough records and receipts for all work completed.

By effectively combining these grants, homeowners can substantially reduce renovation costs and enhance their property’s value and energy efficiency.

Related Links:

• SEAI Individual Energy Upgrade Grants
• Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Application Form

Featured photo by Roselyn Tirado on Unsplash