5 Things to Know Before Renovating Your Home in Ireland

Thinking about renovating your home? Whether it’s upgrading tired interiors, improving energy performance, or modernising an older layout, a good renovation adds real comfort and long-term value.

But before you get stuck into floor plans and Pinterest boards, here are five essential things every Irish homeowner should know.

1. You Might Need Planning Permission, even for Renovations

Not all renovations need planning permission, but some do. If your work affects the structure, increases floor space, or alters the external appearance (especially in the front), you may need to apply.

Examples that might require permission:

• Converting a garage into a living space
• Replacing windows in a protected structure
• Changing the roof shape or adding dormers
• External insulation in some cases

Check official guidance here: citizensinformation.ie

Still unsure? Get in touch with us! We can help assess what applies to your home.

2. You May Be Eligible for SEAI Grants

If your renovation includes energy upgrades (like insulation, new heating systems, or solar panels), you may qualify for grants from the SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland).

These can help offset the cost of:

• Attic or wall insulation
• Heat pumps
• Solar PV
• Ventilation systems
• Home energy assessments

Bonus: A better BER (Building Energy Rating) means a warmer home and higher resale value.

Check SEAI grant info here: seai.ie

3. Structure Comes First!

One of the biggest renovation mistakes? Getting excited about finishes (tiles, flooring, taps) before confirming what’s happening behind the walls.

Start by assessing:

• Insulation and airtightness
• Heating systems (e.g. swapping old oil boilers)
• Windows and external doors
• Electrical layout (especially in older houses)

Once the essentials are covered, then you can focus on surface finishes and design.

4. It’s Your Home: Build It for How You Live Now

A good renovation isn’t about copying a magazine spread: it’s about making your home work for you.

That could mean:

• Removing a wall to open up a space
• Adding storage that actually fits your life
• Making the home warmer, brighter, and easier to live in
• Upgrading to modern lighting and controls

Whether you’re an owner-occupier or a landlord, renovations are your chance to fix what doesn’t work, and future-proof your property for the years ahead.

5. Renovations Add More Than Just Style: They Add Value

Yes, a renovation can absolutely increase your home’s market value, but that’s just one side of it.

For homeowners: You get a more comfortable, better-functioning space to live in day-to-day.
For landlords: A higher-quality property means better tenants and improved long-term returns

Even relatively simple changes, like opening up a kitchen/dining room or upgrading heating systems, can make a big impact in how a home feels and performs.

Have Questions About Your Renovation? Let’s Talk.

We specialise in full-house renovations across Dublin and can help you figure out what’s needed, and what’s worth it.

From planning rules to grant eligibility to making the most of your budget: we’re here to help you get it right.

Get in touch with your specific questions – we’re happy to advise.