Conversion of former Commercial-Public Use Building Grant

The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, funded through the Croí Cónaithe Towns Fund, supports people to bring vacant and derelict buildings back into use as high‑quality homes. From 31 March 2026, the scheme is expanding significantly – unlocking even more potential in our towns, villages, cities, and rural communities.

This enhanced scheme empowers homeowners, buyers, and community‑minded individuals to breathe new life into underused properties while helping to revitalise local areas and increase housing supply.

What’s New from 31 March 2026?

The 2026 expansion introduces major improvements, particularly for those converting former commercial or public buildings:

 Enhanced funding for multi‑unit conversions

Owners converting former commercial/public buildings into two or more residential units can now access significantly increased grant supports, with total funding of up to:

  • €70,000 for vacant buildings (two units)
  • €90,000 for vacant buildings (three or more units)
  • €90,000 for derelict buildings (two units)
  • €110,000 for derelict buildings (three or more units)

Top‑up amounts vary depending on how many homes are being created—making larger conversions more viable than ever before.

 Multiple applications now allowed for multi‑unit conversions

Individuals may now apply for more than one grant where they are converting entire commercial or public buildings into multiple units (one grant per building).

 Expert Advice Grant

A new €5,000 Expert Advice Grant is available to help owners explore the feasibility, design requirements, and costs associated with converting larger buildings. It is advised to do this prior to making a full application for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant – Commercial/Public Use Building. https://monaghan.ie/town-regeneration/expert-advice-grant/.

Properties must have been:

  • Vacant for two years or more, and
  • Built before 2008.

 Available for homeowners or landlords

The grant continues to support individuals who wish to:

  • Create their principal private residence, or
  • Renovate a property to make it available for long‑term rental.

By making refurbishment more affordable and supporting conversions at every scale, the scheme ensures that previously unused buildings can once again become lived‑in, thriving homes.

Full details—including eligibility, conditions, and how to apply—are available in the documents below. It is important to read these documents to get the full details of the scheme in terms of what is covered, eligibility and process.

 

Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Scheme Outline

Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant: Croí Cónaithe FAQs

Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant – Conversion of Former Commercial/Public Use Building Application Form

Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant – Croí Cónaithe Fund Steps

Appeal Form Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (Word Doc)

 

Also, see  link to  the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage website for further information https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/vacant-property-refurbishment-grant/.

 

Applications can be submitted to  derelictsites@monaghancoco.ie  or by post to

 

Vacant Homes Officer, Town Regeneration Office, Monaghan County Council, Mtek 1 Building, Armagh Rd, Knockaconny, Monaghan, H18 HC96, 047 73779 / 047 61702

 

For any enquiries you may have in relation to the scheme, please contact the Monaghan County Council Vacant Homes Office via email: derelictsites@monaghancoco.ie