Why Contractor Availability Matters (Especially in Peak Season)

As we move into the busiest period of the construction calendar, one of the most overlooked—but telling—signals when choosing a contractor is availability. At first glance, a contractor who can start in 2–3 weeks might seem like a win. But in reality, it’s something that deserves closer scrutiny. The Reality of Peak Season In Ireland, …

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.

Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant: What Homeowners Get Wrong (and How to Avoid Costly Delays)

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 …

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.

As a self builder, do you know what your obligations are before and during construction?

A lot of people undertake the role of project managing their selfbuild construction project, an impressive and challenging undertaking, partly to fulfill a desire to “build their own home” whilst also saving money that they would otherwise be paying to a building contractor. There are reasons why a building contractor is more expensive than self …

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.

Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (VPRG) in Ireland: DIY Works, Self‑Prepared Applications, and What Homeowners Need to Know

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 …

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.

New 2025 Housing Grants: What’s Changing — And What It Means for Vacant Property Owners

Ireland’s housing landscape is shifting again, and for anyone who owns a vacant or derelict property, the changes are good news. Alongside the existing Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (VPRG), the Government has announced new proposals for 2025 aimed at accelerating the return of empty homes — and even empty commercial buildings — back into productive …

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.
demolition safety, structural alterations, home renovation, construction risks, Summit Matters Ltd, Dublin Ireland

If I get a builders  quote  for the grant application, do I still have to go with that builder?

Great question and an easy one to answer. No. Getting a builder’s quote for your grant doesn’t tie you to that builder. It’s just to show the grant body what the work will cost. That said, it really helps if your quote comes from someone who knows the grant system. At Summit Group, we help …

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.

What happens to the clawback if you die within 10 years of availing of the VPRG?

Here’s what the official terms and the practical/legal situation look like for the Vacant/Derelict Property Refurbishment Grant in Ireland — specifically around clawback and what happens if the grant recipient dies within the 10-year period: 📌 Clawback Basics Under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (including the derelict top-up), local authorities register a legal charge on …

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.

What is Sustainable Construction?

When people hear the term sustainable construction, they often think of “eco-friendly” or “green” building. But for us at Summit Matters Ltd, it’s about something bigger and more practical: building and renovating homes in a way that makes them efficient, durable, comfortable, and future-proof, while also respecting the environment. Building Smarter, Not Just Greener Sustainable …

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.

Why It’s Tricky to Get a Builder’s Quote Right Now

If you’ve been trying to get hold of a builder lately, you might be wondering if we’ve all gone into hiding. Calls aren’t getting returned, quotes are taking ages, and everyone seems just a bit too busy. Trust me — we’re not ignoring you. This time of year just gets a little… hectic. Here’s why:

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.

Top 5 Frustrations Homeowners Have with Builders and Tradespeople — And How to Avoid Them

Hiring a builder or tradesperson for your home renovation should feel exciting — not stressful. Yet many homeowners in Ireland find themselves dealing with broken promises, poor communication, or shoddy workmanship that turns their dream project into a nightmare. Here are the top 5 frustrations homeowners commonly face — and how choosing the right builder …

Sharing is caring, we appreciate you sharing our articles.