The alternative accommodation grant

If your home has to be emptied while the works are done, you may be able to claim the Alternative Accommodation Ancillary Grant. It is one of the ancillary grants paid alongside your main remediation grant. For other things to think about when moving out, see temporary accommodation during works.

How much is it?

The accommodation grant rose by €1,500 to €16,500 in October 2024, as part of a 10% increase in all ancillary grants. See grant rates and the cap for the full figures.

What do I need to claim it?

You must give full proof of both:

• the rental arrangement itself, and
• the payments you actually made under it.

Donegal County Council publishes guidance on submitting a valid payment claim for an ancillary grant (February 2025). Read it before you claim, and check with your council if you are not sure your proof is enough.

Does the increased grant apply to accommodation?

No. In 2026 the law changed so that homeowners who received their determination before 23 October 2024 can apply for the higher remediation option grant. That retrospection does not apply to ancillary grant rates, including accommodation.

What else changed in 2026?

Donegal County Council has confirmed the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks (Amendment) Act 2025 and the Dwellings Damaged by Use of Defective Concrete Blocks (Increased Grant) Regulations 2026. They bring in two changes:

• an increase in the remediation option grant for some homeowners: grant rates up by 7.4% to 8.7% and the scheme cap up 10% to €462,000
• a change to the time limit for grant payments, set out in time limits in the scheme

The key points are:

• The cap rose on 22 October 2024 and the rates rose in November 2024.
• If you incurred eligible costs since 29 March 2024 that went unpaid, you may apply for the higher amounts, even if you had a lower determination before.
• Homeowners who finished their works entirely before the cut-off dates are reported to remain excluded.
• Donegal is handling applications in three priority groups, starting with those who have finished works and received their final payment.

This is only a partial implementation of the amending law, and more information will follow. For who qualifies, the priority groups and how to apply, see applying for the increased grant.