Just eight Vacant Property Refurbishment Grants issued in Louth
Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage releases Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant statistics
Just eight Vacant Property Refurbishment Grants out of 180 applications to date have been issued in Louth, according to figures released today by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
The Department released figures today relating to Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Applications, for the period 1 April 2024 to 30 June 2024. Among the figures it can be seen that in Louth 22 applications were received by Louth County Council during the time period.
Of the 22 applications, 16 have been approved and six rejected, with Vacant Property Refurbishment Grants being issued for three applications on completion of works. In total, up to 30 June 2024, 180 applications have been made in Louth for the grant since the scheme was introduced.
Of the 180 applications, 107 have been approved, 14 were rejected, and grants have been issued for eight applications on completion of works. Nationally, 8,647 applications were made since the scheme was introduced, with 5,412 applications approved, and 548 rejected. Grants have been issued for 484 applications on completion of works, or just 5.6% of the total applications.
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is a payment available to someone who is turning a vacant house or building into a permanent home or a rental property. A grant of up to €50,000 is available. If the refurbishment costs exceed the standard grant of up to €50,000, a top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 is available.
To qualify for the grant, the applicant must have proof of ownership or evidence of active negotiations to buy the property where they are seeking approval in principle for a grant; live in the property as their principal private residence or make it available for rent; and have proof that the property has been vacant for at least 2 years and that it was built up to and including 2007.
The grant applies to qualifying vacant properties in cities, towns, villages and rural parts of the country. Local authorities administer the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.