The Human Side of Home Renovations: Easing the Stress for Families

by Summit MattersWhat we doPosted on No Comments

The human side of home renovations is often overlooked, but it’s just as critical as the technical and logistical aspects. Renovating a home, especially one that’s being lived in during the process, can be an emotional rollercoaster for families Home renovations often conjure images of dust, drills, and dramatic before-and-after shots. But behind the scenes, …

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What Will Be the Next Asbestos? Rethinking Today’s “Innovative” Building Materials

by Summit MattersHealth & Safety, What we doPosted on No Comments

In the 1970s, asbestos was a miracle material. Fire-resistant, durable, and a great insulator, it was used in everything from roofing to insulation to floor tiles. Today, we know the heavy price that came with that convenience: lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other serious health conditions caused by airborne asbestos fibers. The tragedy of asbestos serves …

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Deep Retrofit or Cosmetic Flip? The Real Face of Ireland’s Property ‘Renovation’

by Summit MattersStandards of Building, Sustainability, What we doPosted on No Comments

In Ireland’s fast-moving property market, the word “renovated” gets thrown around a lot. New windows, a fresh render, modern floors, and shiny fittings are often enough to sell a home at a premium. But are we really improving our housing stock — or just painting over the cracks?

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Going Off-Grid in Ireland: Possibilities, Limitations & Costs

by Summit MattersSustainability, What we doPosted on No Comments

At Summit Matters, we meet more and more clients looking to step away from rising utility costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and live more independently. Going completely off-grid in Ireland is not only possible—it’s becoming increasingly practical. But it’s not without its challenges. Here’s our breakdown of what going off-grid in Ireland really looks like, …

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Who’s Really Cashing In on Property Grants? Not the Fixer-Upper Buyer

by Summit MattersConstruction Project Management, Grant Scheme - FAQs, Summit GroupPosted on No Comments

There’s a lot of buzz around government support for bringing Ireland’s derelict and vacant properties back into use. Between the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and SEAI energy upgrade incentives, it seems like a golden opportunity for first-time buyers, returnees, and everyday people looking to take on a renovation project. The idea is sound: make it …

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Essential Documents for Home Contractors in Ireland

by Summit MattersConstruction Project Management, Health & Safety, Summit Group, What we doPosted on No Comments

Restoring a home is an exciting journey—but when you take on the role of self-build project manager, you’re stepping into big shoes. Managing your own renovation can be highly rewarding, but it also comes with legal and practical responsibilities, especially when it comes to health and safety. At Summit Matters Ltd, we work alongside homeowners …

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extending the derelict ireland grant deadline

Planning approved for a Derelict home; what’s next?

by Summit MattersConstruction Project Management, Grant Scheme - FAQs, What we doPosted on No Comments

That’s a huge milestone—congrats on getting your planning approved! 🎉 Now you’re onto the next big phase: securing that grant funding. The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (and any add-ons like the SEAI Home Energy grants) can make a big difference, but the process can be paperwork-heavy and a bit of a maze if you’re not …

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✅ Tax Clearance Checklist for Homeowners

by Summit MattersConstruction Project Management, Grant Scheme - FAQs, What we doPosted on No Comments

Using the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant As the Grant Applicant: ☐ Registered with Revenue    • You must have a PPS number and an active Revenue MyAccount or ROS login. ☐ Up to Date with Your Tax Affairs    • File any outstanding returns (self-assessed income, property taxes, etc.) ☐ Hold a Current Tax Clearance Certificate (or use the …

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Guide to Getting Planning Permission for a Home Extension in County Dublin

by Summit MattersSummit Group, What we doPosted on No Comments

Planning permission is crucial for ensuring that developments align with local regulations, protect the environment and heritage, and meet community needs. It prevents inappropriate building and development, and mandates that construction complies with local planning and environmental guidelines. Without planning permission, building work is considered unauthorized and could lead to fines or even demolition of the unauthorized …

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extending the derelict ireland grant deadline

How do I Prove a Property is Derelict to maximise my grant funding?

by Summit MattersConstruction Project Management, Grant Scheme - FAQs, What we doPosted on No Comments

The Irish government offers financial support to renovate long-abandoned properties through the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and related schemes. However, not every neglected property qualifies for derelict status, which can provide higher grant funding (up to €70,000). Understanding what constitutes a derelict home is essential before applying for assistance. What is the Derelict Homes Scheme? …

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