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 …
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 …
Read more “As a self builder, do you know what your obligations are before and during construction?”
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 …
When upgrading older homes, one of the most effective ways to improve comfort and energy performance is by applying external wall insulation (EWI). Unlike internal insulation, which reduces room sizes and can leave cold masonry behind the insulation layer, external insulation places the thermal envelope on the outside of the house. This means the existing …
Read more “External Insulation & Thermal Mass Properties of Solid Wall Buildings”
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?
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, …
Read more “Going Off-Grid in Ireland: Possibilities, Limitations & Costs”
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 …
Read more “Planning approved for a Derelict home; what’s next?”
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 …
Renovating an Older or Derelict Property in Ireland? Here’s What You Need to Know About Compliance Certificates and Mortgage Conditions For many Irish homeowners and developers, purchasing a derelict or pre-1963 home offers the opportunity to restore character and charm. But when it comes to mortgage drawdowns—especially with lenders like Bank of Ireland (BOI)—you may …
Ireland’s Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is an excellent scheme designed to bring vacant and derelict properties back into use. But can it be used to build an extension? The short answer is no—but it is also yes as there is a section in the VG Application Form for “Extension”. We’ll try explain below as an …
Read more “Can You Use the Irish Vacant Home Grant to Build an Extension?”