The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (VPRG) is one of the most significant incentives available to homeowners looking to bring vacant or derelict properties back into use in Ireland. At Summit Matters Ltd, we regularly assist clients who are navigating this grant—often after encountering avoidable delays, reduced payments, or compliance issues arising from DIY works or poorly prepared applications.
This article explains how the VPRG works, the real implications of carrying out works yourself, and what is involved in submitting a self-prepared application. The aim is to help homeowners make informed, realistic decisions and protect their grant funding from the outset.
The VPRG is administered by local authorities and provides funding to refurbish long-term vacant or derelict homes.
A critical point often overlooked is that the grant is paid in arrears. All works must be completed, inspected, and verified before any funds are released.
DIY Works Under the VPRG: What Is Allowed and What Is Not
DIY refurbishment works are permitted under the VPRG, but they come with strict limitations that can significantly affect the final grant payment.
DIY labour is not grant-eligible
If you carry out works yourself:
Your labour costs are not eligible. Only the cost of materials may be claimed
This often results in a much lower grant value than expected.
Receipts and records are heavily scrutinised
DIY claims require:
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Fully itemised VAT receipts
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Clear linkage between purchases and the approved scope of works
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Evidence materials were used on the specific property
Non-compliant receipts are one of the most common causes of grant reductions.
Certification still applies
Regardless of who carries out the works:
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Electrical works must be certified by a Safe Electric REC
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Gas works must be certified by an RGII installer
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Structural works may require engineer or architect certification
Without certification, payment can be refused entirely.
Compliance with building regulations
DIY works must meet:
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Irish Building Regulations
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Planning conditions (if applicable)
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Fire safety and ventilation standards
Local authorities often request professional confirmation of compliance on older or derelict homes.
Part DIY, Part Contractor Projects
A mixed approach is allowed but must be clearly defined:
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Clear separation of DIY and contractor works
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Transparent, itemised costings
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Proper invoices for all contractor-led works
Any ambiguity can lead to reassessment or reduced grant approval.
Preparing a VPRG Application Yourself
A self-prepared application is achievable, but it requires care and technical understanding.
Documentation typically required
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Proof of ownership
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Evidence of vacancy
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Evidence of dereliction (if applicable)
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Detailed scope of works
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Costings and estimates
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Photographic condition survey
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Planning documentation (if required)
The scope of works is critical
The scope must:
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Be detailed and grant-aligned
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Clearly justify costs
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Match the condition of the property
Vague descriptions frequently delay or derail applications.
Costings must stand up to scrutiny
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DIY material costs must be realistic
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Contractor estimates must be formal and itemised
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Inflated figures are routinely challenged
The grant is capped at the lower of approved or actual spend.
Inspections and conditional approval
A local authority inspection is normally required before approval.
Starting works before written approval can invalidate the grant.
The Claim Stage: Where Many DIY Applications Fail
At completion, applicants must submit:
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Final invoices and receipts
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Certificates of compliance
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Photographs of completed works
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Engineer or architect confirmations (if required)
DIY claims are often examined more closely, and even small discrepancies can cause delays or reduced payments.
Risks of a Fully DIY, Self-Prepared Project
Common risks include:
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Under-claiming due to ineligible labour
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Rejected receipts
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Missing certifications
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Mismatch between approved and completed works
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Delays affecting mortgages or occupancy
In many cases, these risks outweigh the perceived savings
When Professional Support Adds Real Value
At Summit Matters Ltd, we specialise in vacant and derelict home refurbishments and provide structured support across the full VPRG process, including:
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Eligibility and feasibility assessments
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Grant-compliant scopes of works
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Cost planning aligned with local authority expectations
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Partial or full project delivery
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Claim preparation and inspection readiness
Our work is grounded in honesty, integrity, value, and experience, with a focus on reducing stress and protecting clients from costly mistakes.
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant can be transformative, but it is a compliance-driven scheme. DIY works and self-prepared applications are permitted, but they demand organisation, technical understanding, and strict adherence to conditions.
For many homeowners, early professional input is the difference between a smooth grant drawdown and a stalled project.