Quick answers about the grant scheme

These are short answers to the questions we hear most. Each one links to a fuller explanation where we have one. For anything about your own home, check with your engineer, solicitor or the local authority.

About the scheme

What is the Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme?

The DCB Grant Scheme gives financial support to homeowners in Donegal, Mayo, Clare, Limerick and Sligo whose homes have been damaged by defective concrete blocks. The grant goes towards the cost of the necessary remediation works, up to a cap of €462,000 per dwelling.

The cap rose by 10%, from €420,000 to €462,000, in October 2024.

Who qualifies as a relevant owner?

A relevant owner is the legal owner of a dwelling affected by defective concrete blocks. Under amended regulations, married couples, civil partners and co-habiting partners may also be considered.

To check your own situation, see Am I eligible?

Are rental properties included?

Yes. Rental properties registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) as of 1 November 2021 are included. Read more about rental properties in the scheme.

Options and grant amounts

What are the five remedial options?

The options range from full demolition and rebuild (Option 1) to partial repairs (Options 2 to 5). Each option has its own grant rates per square metre, and every option is subject to the €462,000 cap. See how grant rates work.

How is the grant worked out for Option 1?

Option 1 uses a cost-per-square-metre rate based on the SCSI 2023 report. You receive the approved grant amount or the actual vouched cost of the works, whichever is lower. See how grant rates work.

How are grants worked out for Options 2 to 5?

These grants are based on the cost of removing and replacing blockwork and the repairs that go with it. The figures draw on regional rebuild cost figures and the recommendations of the Expert Group. See how grant rates work.

Is there a second grant if problems come back?

Yes. For eligible works under Options 2 to 5, the scheme provides a government-backed second grant for up to 40 years. Read more about the 40-year guarantee.

Applying and payments

How do I apply?

You submit a Building Condition Assessment (BCA) to your local authority. New applications are then referred to the Housing Agency, which assesses the dwelling and decides on grant eligibility. Our step-by-step guide walks you through each stage, and time limits explains the deadlines to keep in mind.

Can I get paid in stages while the work is going on?

Yes. You can apply for staged (interim) grant payments during the works. To do this, you submit interim valuation certificates from a competent building professional.

I applied under the old scheme. Can I move to the enhanced scheme?

Yes. Transitional arrangements let homeowners who applied before benefit retrospectively from the enhancements.