The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Waterford has supported the refurbishment of 79 vacant or derelict homes since the scheme launched, according to cumulative figures published by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

By 31 December 2025, Waterford City and County Council had received 390 applications under the scheme. The local authority approved 221 of those applications and rejected 11.

Grants issued on completion of works in Waterford now total more than €4.26 million. These payments relate to homes that were vacant or derelict and have since returned to active residential use.

While Waterford’s figures remain below those recorded in many other counties, the data confirms steady engagement with the scheme since its introduction.

The grant allows applicants to claim up to €70,000 to refurbish a vacant property, with additional funding available where a home meets the definition of derelict. Local authorities issue payments only after approved works are fully completed.

Strong Growth

At a national level, the scheme has delivered significant results.

By the end of 2025, local authorities had received more than 16,000 applications nationwide. They approved over 12,000 of those applications and paid out 4,514 grants on completion of works, with funding totalling almost €247 million.

The pace of delivery accelerated sharply in 2025. Local authorities issued 3,066 completed grant payments during the year, more than double the total recorded in 2024.

Donegal leads nationally

Donegal County Council recorded the highest level of activity nationally. By the end of 2025, it had issued 396 completed grants with payments exceeding €22.4 million.

Cork County Council and Dublin City Council also ranked highly, each recording more than 300 completed refurbishments under the scheme.

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage has said the grant plays a key role in tackling vacancy and dereliction during a national housing shortage. 

The Government recently extended the scheme until 2030 and confirmed additional funding of up to €140,000 for converting vacant above-shop units into homes.

That enhanced support package will become available in early 2026.

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