Do you plan to renovate your home
Renovating a house or home in Ireland is normally a once in a lifetime project. It is a very rewarding project, but a complex process. Whether you’re upgrading an old house, a period home, or a modern house, there are key factors to be considered.
Most renovations do not require planning permission, but structural changes, extensions, or protected structures may need approval from the local authority.
All upgrades and alterations must comply with building regulations. These are technical construction standards that apply to the design and construction of the buildings, extensions and material alterations to, and certain changes of use of existing buildings.
The regulations are covered under the Building Control Act, 1990 and amendments. If your home is a listed building, specific restrictions will also apply.
In advance of all preparations for the project, check what grants may be available to you for the renovation required. Depending on occupancy, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant might be an option.
If a property is unoccupied for two years or longer, the owner is entitled to apply for this grant. Up to €50,000 is available for bringing vacant homes back into use and, if the property is deemed derelict, an additional €20,000 may also be available. The Vacant Property Refurbishment is administered by all local authorities including Cavan County Council.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offer a range of grants for home refurbishing and the installation of energy saving products and appliances.
If the renovations are seen as major alterations to an existing property, it is worth considering an option offered by the SEAI, known as a One Stop Shop. This involves a deep and complete retrofit.
Details on this programme are available on the SEAI website, log on to www.seai.ie or check out the Retrofit Ready website, www.retrofit-ready.ie
All works approved by the SEAI for grant assistance must be carried out by an SEAI registered contractor. It is important to note that Heritage Grants may also be available for restoring period properties.
Renovations to your home will significantly improving your home’s energy, efficiency, comfort and will increase the value of the property.
The exact energy efficiency of your home is evaluated by obtaining a Building Energy Rating (BER) certificated. To avail of SEAI grants your rating must reach a B2 or better.
Home Energy Event
Retrofit Ready in association with Maudabawn ICA will host a Home Energy Event in Gallonray House, Maudabawn, Cootehill, on Monday, March 24, at 7:30pm.
The purpose of this event is to introduce attendees to energy saving works and grants available.
A number of contractors and financial institutions will be on hand to assist people with information on products, appliances and finance requirements for carrying out these works.
One of the main features at these events are questions on the Warmer Homes Scheme (free energy upgrade). Are you eligible to apply for this scheme? Come along and find out.
READ MORE
Retrofit Ready host mid-programme conference