What does Reunify actually do?
Reunify is Ireland's vacant building platform — connecting building owners and developers with the grants, finance and expert advice needed to turn vacant and derelict buildings into homes. For individual owners the starting point is the Expert Advice Grant — a government-funded professional assessment of your building before you commit to anything. For developers with a specific project, Reunify helps identify the right grant stack and connects you with specialist lenders through our finance platform.
I have a vacant building above my shop — where do I start?
The Expert Advice Grant is your first step. It funds up to 67% of the cost of a professional assessment — up to a maximum of €5,000 in total — covering an architectural survey, planning review and building regulations assessment before you commit to anything. Reunify coordinates the whole process. Talk to the AI at the top of this page and it will tell you in minutes whether you qualify and exactly what to do next.
What types of building does Reunify work with?
Vacant buildings with residential conversion potential — shops with empty floors above, former pubs, bars and restaurants, former vacant offices or bank buildings, former commercial premises converting to 2 or more homes, and derelict or long-term vacant houses or cottages. The project must have a residential output. Geography is nationwide across Ireland, though grant eligibility varies by location and local authority.
What is the Expert Advice Grant?
A government grant of up to €5,000 toward a professional assessment of your vacant building — covering a site survey, planning assessment, building regulations review and a sketch conversion proposal. Available for above-the-shop conversions and former commercial buildings converting to two or more units. Individuals only. No works, drawings or planning applications can be in place before you apply. The grant covers up to 67% of the report cost — there is always some out-of-pocket cost to the owner. Reunify manages the full process.
Is it free to use the AI?
Yes — completely free. No account, no registration. The AI helps you understand what grants and planning routes may apply to your building and points you toward the right first step. It is a guide to help you navigate the landscape — always take professional advice before buying or committing to any works.
Do I need to own the building to apply for the Expert Advice Grant?
No — you can apply if you are actively negotiating to purchase a building. You don't need to have completed the purchase. Even if the building is still on the market, you can start the process now. If timing is a factor, mention it when you get in touch.
What is the Vacant Above the Shop Grant?
A new government grant launched in March 2026 — up to €95,000 for one residential unit above a shop, €115,000 for two units, €135,000 for three or more. Available to individual building owners, not companies. The Expert Advice Grant is the natural first step before applying for this. The Reunify AI will identify whether your building qualifies and what the full grant stack looks like.
I own a vacant property but don't want to develop it myself — can Reunify help?
Yes. Reunify works with developers who may be interested in suitable regeneration opportunities. If you own a vacant or derelict property and want to explore your options — including selling to someone who understands the conversion process — get in touch and we will let you know if there is a likely fit.
What if my project doesn't stack up?
The AI will give you an honest read on what is and isn't available based on what you tell it — and will flag the most common issues early, such as vacancy period, ownership structure, or works already started. If the main grant routes aren't open to you, it will tell you clearly and explain what options remain. Knowing early saves time and money. If you are not sure where you stand, talk to the AI first and submit your details if you want the team to take a look.
For developers & builders
What finance can Reunify help me access?
It depends on your situation. For individual owners converting a vacant building, the options typically include a standard mortgage top-up, a self-build or staged drawdown mortgage, or the Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan — a government-backed combined mortgage and renovation loan for eligible properties. Standard lenders are sometimes unfamiliar with derelict or uninhabitable buildings, so Reunify can introduce you to brokers who understand this type of project. For developers, Reunify introduces senior development finance from specialist Irish lenders, short-term bridging and acquisition finance, and for the right projects, co-investment capital. Reunify is not a regulated financial adviser — introductions only. The grant and finance pieces need to be considered together, so take proper advice before committing to any structure.
What planning do I need before approaching Reunify?
Planning must be confirmed before Reunify engages on any capital deal. That means a Section 5 Declaration confirming exempted development, a confirmed planning exemption under S.I. 648 of 2025 (commercial to residential change of use, subject to conditions and a December 2028 completion deadline), or a live planning permission. We do not take planning risk. If planning is not yet confirmed, the AI will tell you exactly what you need and the fastest route to get it — the Expert Advice Grant can fund the planning consultant fee.
How does co-investment work?
For qualifying projects, Reunify provides acquisition bridge capital alongside the developer's own contribution. Senior debt funds the construction. Reunify participates in the upside at exit. Deal structure — including developer equity, returns and exit route — is agreed privately on every project. Submit a brief and the team will assess whether your project is a fit.
