Over €2 million paid out in Waterford under vacant property refurbishment grants

The Government has published the latest figures on the uptake of the vacant property grant with over €77 million being paid out across the country to almost 1,500 homes. 

So far, 284 applications have been received in Waterford City and across the county since the scheme first launched in July 2022. Of these applications, 156 have been approved and 39 grants have been issued.

As it stands, just over €2 million has been paid out in Waterford for the refurbishment of the 39 homes. 

These figures reflect the applications, approvals and payments made under the scheme up until the end of December 2024. The numbers of those applying for the grant after completing refurbishment works has exponentially increased.

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With this grant, homeowners can receive up to €70,000 to turn a vacant or derelict house or building into a permanent home or rental property. The grants are then paid upon completion of the works and the submission of the required paperwork. 

Commenting on the latest figures, Waterford TD and Minister for State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, John Cummins said: "The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is delivering real results, with over €77 million already paid out to bring nearly 1,500 homes back into use in towns and villages across the country.

"The grant payments, over €2 million in Waterford since the scheme began shows growing momentum, helping to tackle vacancy and providing much-needed housing across Waterford City and County.

"With its ability to provide housing and revitalise communities, it is not surprising that the grant is so popular. Indeed, with over 11,000 applications received and hundreds of applications being received monthly, this initiative is making a real difference in communities across the country."