New GeoDirectory figures reported by RTÉ show a strong rise in residential construction activity. More than 30,000 residential buildings were under construction in June 2026, almost 28% more than a year earlier. RTE News There are positive signs elsewhere too. After years of housing shortages, rising rents and growing house prices, I have to admit […]
Ireland’s housing crisis has rightly focused attention on increasing the number of homes being built. However, recent developments involving Circle Voluntary Housing Association, an Approved Housing Body, raise another important question. ”As housing organisations continue to expand, are we asking every organisation to do the jobs they are best equipped to perform?” Following a regulatory
Ireland’s housing debate has often focused on one question: how do we build more homes? And for the last few years, finding a solution that’s a win-win for everyone has been one of my goals. A recent announcement by Dublin City Council (DCC) may offer an interesting glimpse into one possible answer. DCC has launched
Since Covid 19, Ireland’s housing news has been dominated by headlines about skyhigh prices, record rents, and a severe housing shortage. Recently, however, there has finally been some encouraging news. According to a recent Irish Times analysis by property economist John McCartney, both rent inflation and house price inflation have begun to slow. New home
Ireland’s Housing Market Is Cooling. So Why Does Homeownership Feel Further Away? Read More »
The Irish Government has published draft planning guidelines that could change how one-off rural housing applications are assessed across Ireland. The proposals aim to replace the existing 2005 Rural Housing guidelines with a more consistent, national approach, while also making it easier for people with genuine local ties to build in rural communities. Irish Times.
New Rural Housing Planning Rules – How Will This Affect Ribbon Development in Ireland? Read More »
Full details of Attic Conversion Regulations in Ireland are available on the Official Loft Conversion Guidelines Document (2022) – HERE. This articles is but a summary of the main points from the full official document. 1. Before You Start 2. An Attic Conversion Creates an Extra Storey A bungalow effectively becomes a two-storey house and
Attic (Loft) Conversion Building Regulations in Ireland. Read More »
1. What are the current Building Regulations in Ireland? Building regulations in Ireland dictate the minimum construction standards for design, extension, and material alterations. They are categorized into 12 parts (A through M), each supported by detailed Technical Guidance Documents (TGD) that explain how to achieve statutory compliance. The 12 Parts of Irish Building Regulations Other Key
House Building Regulations & Standards in Ireland – Simple Questions Answered. Read More »
Key Takeaways Key Point What It Means State and investors are buying a growing share of new homes Fewer newly built homes are available to first-time buyers Housing supply remains too low Competition for available homes continues to push prices higher The State is helping people through social housing purchases But it is often buying
Key Takeaways Topic Summary Is home insurance mandatory in Ireland? Not by law, but mortgage lenders almost always require buildings insurance. Average cost Most homeowners pay between €250 and €700+ per year depending on property type, location, rebuild cost, and claims history. Cheapest Provider There is no single cheapest insurer for everyone. Prices vary based
Home Insurance Ireland – Complete Guide to Costs, Cover & Finding the Best Policy Read More »
Key Takeaways Topic Summary What are Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)? SIPs are high-performance building panels consisting of an insulating foam core sandwiched between two structural boards. Are SIPs popular in Ireland? Yes. SIPs are increasingly used for self-builds, extensions, modular homes, and energy-efficient housing. Are SIPs cheaper than timber frame? Usually not. SIPs often cost