The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant has opened the door for thousands of homeowners to bring empty and derelict houses back into use. However, while the grant is generous, many applicants experience delays, refusals, or unexpected costs—not because the scheme is flawed, but because of avoidable mistakes early in the process.
At Summit Matters Ltd, we work directly with clients renovating vacant and derelict homes across Ireland. Below are the most common errors we see, and how to avoid them if you want your project to progress smoothly.
1. Starting Work Before Written Grant Approval
This is the single most common and most costly mistake.
Homeowners often assume that submitting an application or receiving verbal confirmation is enough to proceed. It is not.
If works begin before formal written approval, the local authority can deem the project ineligible, regardless of spend or urgency.
How to avoid it:
- Wait for written confirmation of approval and funding limits
- Ensure your contractor understands the grant conditions
- Build the approval period into your project timeline from day one
2. Underestimating the True Cost of a Derelict Renovation
The grant can fund up to €50,000 for vacant homes and €70,000 for derelict properties, but it does not guarantee full coverage of a renovation.
Common uncovered or underestimated costs include:
- Structural remediation uncovered after strip-out
- Electrical or plumbing upgrades beyond minimum complianceTemporary works, access issues, or specialist trades
- Design changes made mid-project
How to avoid it:
- Commission a proper condition assessment before applying
Budget for contingency (typically 15–20% on derelict properties)
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Treat the grant as a contribution, not a total solution
3. Inadequate or Non-Compliant Documentation
Grant payments are released only after strict inspection and documentation checks. Incomplete or incorrect paperwork is a frequent cause of delayed drawdowns.
Typical issues include:
- Missing invoices or receipts
- Invoices not matching approved scopes of work
- Lack of photographic evidence (before, during, after)
- Contractor details not aligning with application records
How to avoid it:
- Keep all records organised from the outset
- Photograph every stage of the works
- Ensure invoices are clear, itemised, and compliant
- Use a contractor experienced in grant-funded projects
4. Assuming the Grant Covers Energy Upgrades Automatically
Many homeowners assume that insulation, windows, or heating upgrades are automatically covered. In reality, not all energy works qualify, and some are better supported through SEAI schemes, not the vacant homes grant.
This can lead to:
- Rejected cost items
- Missed opportunities for additional funding
- Poor sequencing of works
How to avoid it:
- Align your renovation plan with both grant schemes early
- Understand where SEAI grants may be more appropriate
- Coordinate timelines so works qualify under the correct scheme
5. Choosing a Contractor Without Grant Experience
A general builder may be competent on site but unfamiliar with:
- Local authority inspections
- Grant-specific sign-offs
- Compliance documentation requirements
- Payment staging expectations
This often results in frustration for the homeowner, not the contractor.
How to avoid it:
- Ask direct questions about prior grant-funded projects
- Confirm who is responsible for compliance documentation
- Work with a contractor who understands both construction and administration
Final Advice: Plan First, Build Second
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is an excellent opportunity—but only when approached with proper planning, realistic budgeting, and experienced support.
At Summit Matters Ltd, we specialise in:
- Renovation of vacant and derelict homes
- Practical grant guidance and documentation support
- Clear cost planning and honest project advice
Our role is to reduce stress, prevent delays, and protect your investment—before the first wall is opened.
Considering a Vacant or Derelict Renovation?
If you are planning to apply for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and want clarity before committing, early advice can save months of delay and thousands in avoidable costs.
Summit Matters Ltd — honesty, integrity, value, and experience.
📸 Featured Photo by Aleksandr Kadykov on Unsplash