Revitalising a derelict or vacant Laois house? Portlaoise clinic can help

Laois people hoping to renovate vacant or derelict properties will be able to tap into some expert advice at an upcoming event in Portlaoise.

Laois County Council says the drop-in clinic is organised by the Council's Regeneration Section in partnership with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).

"The drop-in session will provide essential guidance on property renovation funding as part of the Government’s Town Centre First policy, which aims to revitalise town centres and breathe new life into underused buildings," said the local authority.

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Portlaoise Library hosting the event

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about available grants and funding & eligibility criterion for the renovation of vacant and derelict properties
• Speak directly with Laois County Council vacancy & dereliction staff and SEAI representatives about your projects
• Understand the eligibility criteria and application process for SEAI-supported schemes
• Receive expert advice on energy upgrades on your property and how to make homes more sustainable

READ ALSO: Laois council tenants refusing retrofits

The clinic takes place in Portlaoise Library on Wednesday, November 12 from 10am to 4 pm.

The latest figures from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage show that over €5 million in refurbishment grants have returned 97 vacant and derelict properties to active use in Laois.

From July 2022 to September 2025, there have been 249 applications from Laois homeowners for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, with 191 applications approved.

The Department says that since the scheme’s launch in July 2022, 11,059 applications have been approved.

A new video showcasing the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant has been launched. It follows the journey of one grant recipient, highlights the impact of the grant, and explains how to apply.