Both 2027 funding schemes are open now
Two built heritage funding schemes are open for 2027. Both are administered by local authorities and funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and both support repairs to historic structures in private and public care.
Each scheme requires documentation prepared by a competent conservation professional. That documentation is usually what decides whether an application is complete, so it is worth starting well before the closing date.
Closing dates
4pm, 30 October 2026
Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2027
4pm, 27 November 2026
Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2027
Comparing the two schemes
| Scheme | Grant range | Owner contribution | Closing date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) 2027 | 2,500 to 50,000 euro | At least 20 percent | 4pm, 30 October 2026 |
| Historic Structures Fund (HSF) 2027 | 15,000 to 200,000 euro | At least 50 percent | 4pm, 27 November 2026 |
Who can apply
Owners and custodians of historic structures can apply, as can local authorities for heritage buildings in public ownership.
Eligible buildings are those entered on the Record of Protected Structures, buildings proposed for inclusion that meet the criteria, and, in exceptional circumstances, buildings within an Architectural Conservation Area.
If you are unsure of your building's status, your local authority conservation officer can confirm it.
What every application needs
1. A method statement
Prepared by a competent conservation professional, setting out the condition of the structure, the works proposed and how they will be carried out.
2. A quotation for the proposed works
A costing from a contractor or specialist for the repairs you are applying to fund.
3. Photographs of the existing condition
Clear images showing the parts of the structure that need attention, before any work begins.
How we help
Slattery Conservation prepares the method statement your application depends on, based on an inspection of the building and a clear understanding of its fabric. We advise on which of the two schemes suits the works you have in mind, and we specify the repair approach and the materials to be used, so the funding you receive is spent on work that protects the structure.
The practice is led by James Slattery, RIAI Grade 1 Conservation Architect.
Please confirm the details in your own county
Scheme administration, the exact documentation required and any county level closing dates are set by each local authority. Every county council publishes its own application form and guidance, so confirm what applies to your building with the conservation officer in your county before you submit.
Scheme information on gov.ieFrequently asked questions
Can I apply for both schemes for the same building?
The two schemes fund different scales of work, so the right choice depends on the works proposed and their cost. Local authorities administer both schemes, so confirm with the conservation officer in your county whether applications to both are permitted for your structure in the same year before you prepare two sets of documentation.
What counts as a competent conservation professional?
A professional with recognised conservation accreditation and demonstrable experience of works to protected structures. Slattery Conservation is led by James Slattery, RIAI Grade 1 Conservation Architect, the highest conservation accreditation grade awarded by the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Applications received after the closing time are not considered for that round. Both schemes have run annually, so the practical step is to prepare your documentation now and apply when the next round opens. Urgent works to a structure at risk should be raised directly with your local authority conservation officer.
Do I need planning permission as well as a grant?
A grant is funding, not consent. Works to a protected structure that would materially affect its character normally require planning permission, and some repairs may be exempt. Confirm the position for your building with your local authority before works begin, and allow time for both processes.
Last reviewed: 21 September 2026. This page is updated each year when the new schemes open.