Government increases funding for home adaptation grants to €152m in 2026
Support scheme expected to fund around 17,000 home improvements for older and disabled people
9 March 2026 | 📧 editor@ipropertyradio.com
The Government has announced €129.5 million in Exchequer funding for Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and Disabled People in 2026, bringing the total projected funding for the scheme to more than €152 million when local authority contributions are included.
The increased allocation represents a €30 million rise compared with last year and is expected to support approximately 17,000 grant claims across the country. The funding is designed to help older people and people with disabilities carry out essential home adaptations so they can continue living independently.
The Housing Adaptation Grants scheme provides financial assistance for a range of works that make homes safer and more suitable for residents with mobility or health challenges. Grants of up to €40,000 are available to help people with disabilities make major adaptations to their homes. Separate grants of up to €10,700 are available for necessary repairs or improvements for older people, while grants of up to €8,000 can support the installation of mobility aids.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne said the programme remains a key Government commitment.
“The continued support of these grant schemes are a key Government commitment. I am delighted that the increased level of funding available in 2026 will continue to ensure delivery of these significant grants,” he said.
“Housing Adaptation Grants help to support independent living for people in their own homes and can also facilitate an early return from hospitals. I have witnessed firsthand how these grants have benefitted many people across the country to remain living independently at home. These grants also support local economies, creating employment opportunities for local contractors.”
Minister of State with responsibility for Older Persons Kieran O’Donnell said the scheme plays an important role in supporting people to remain in their communities.
“These Housing Adaption Grants have a really positive impact on the home life of many older and disabled people and play a critical role in helping them to continue to live independently,” he said.
“In my role as Minister of State with responsibility for housing for older people, I am committed to supporting people to continue living in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. Today’s announcement is a vital step towards this commitment.”
Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government and Planning John Cummins said local authorities will continue to play a central role in administering the scheme.
“In 2025, some 15,700 grant claims were processed across the 31 local authorities. I want to compliment local authorities for the key role they play in administering the grants, including assessing applications and arranging home inspections where adaptations are proposed,” he said.
“Through this work, local authorities are empowering older and disabled people in their daily routines enabling them to maintain their independence within their own homes.”
Funding is allocated to all 31 local authorities, with the largest allocations going to Dublin City Council (€15.37 million combined funding), Cork County Council (€9.84 million), Fingal County Council (€7.19 million) and South Dublin County Council (€7.6 million).
Applications for Housing Adaptation Grants are made through local authorities, which assess eligibility, carry out inspections where necessary and administer payments for approved works. The scheme supports adaptations such as accessible bathrooms, stairlifts, ramps and other structural modifications designed to improve mobility and safety in the home.
