€5k lead pipe grant open to all

All homes built before the 1980s that contain lead pipes can avail of a grant to replace them, thanks to a grant scheme first introduced in 2016.

As of December 2022 the scheme is no longer means tested and the grant amount is higher.

You can now get a grant to replace lead pipes and related fittings for 100 per cent of the cost or €5,000, whichever is the lowest. Before the change, grants up to €4,000 were available to those earning up to €50,000 per year.

The new grant includes €200 for the provision of a certificate from a laboratory or notification from a registered building professional.

which outlines the condition of a building and suggests conservation repairs and improvements which would improve the building and enhance its character, energy efficiency, integrity, and amenity.

The aim of the scheme is to help owners of traditionally constructed buildings to understand the heritage value and potential of these structures and to prompt them to consider investments which could enhance that value.

All applicants must be willing to complete a short questionnaire to assist with the evaluation of the scheme and provide a selection of before and after photographs.

Note: Not all conservation professionals will have energy modelling skills so engagement of additional conservation expertise may form part of the report recommendations. The grant does not cover costs associated with the design and specification of new build additions.

Both of these grants can be used in conjunction with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) grants to help improve the energy efficiency of a home.

The minimum expenditure has been increased from €200 to €750. The scope of works is to replace old lead pipes and fittings with copper or plastic pipes.

Customers of Irish Water must apply through the Customer opt-in Lead Pipe Replacement Scheme. If you are not an Irish Water customer, contact your local authority to apply for the grant.