Grant Amounts (2026)
€2,000
€2,500
€2,500
+€500 announced Feb 2026
€2,500–4,500
€500–2,500
In February 2026, the grant increased to help more homeowners reach full cost coverage. If you've been sitting on this, now is the time to apply.
Who's Eligible?
To claim the SEAI roof insulation grant under the Better Energy Homes scheme, you must:
Own a property built before 2011. Your home must have been constructed or substantially completed before 1st January 2011. Most Dublin homes qualify.
Have a valid Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate. You need a BER done by a registered assessor before you apply. This costs €80–150 and shows your current energy rating (A–G).
Use a registered SEAI contractor. You can't DIY this—the work must be done by an approved contractor on the SEAI list. This ensures quality and warranty.
Live in the property as your main residence. Second homes and investment properties don't qualify.
Not have received a similar grant in the last 5 years. You can't claim twice in quick succession.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
Step 1: Get a BER Certificate
Contact a registered BER assessor (find them on seai.ie). They'll visit your home, assess its energy performance, and issue a certificate. Cost: €80–150. This certificate is valid for 10 years and is your proof of eligibility. Don't skip this—you can't apply without it.
Step 2: Choose a SEAI Registered Contractor
Browse the SEAI contractor list on seai.ie. Filter for your county (Dublin) and insulation work. Ask 2-3 for quotations. A registered contractor means insurance, warranty, and quality assurance. They'll also help you with the application process.
Step 3: Get a Written Quote
The contractor provides a detailed quote for the insulation work. This quote must break down labour and materials. The grant covers up to €2,000–2,500 of the cost, so the quote tells you what you'll pay out of pocket. A typical attic insulation quote runs €2,500–4,500 depending on loft size and access.
Step 4: Apply Online to SEAI
You (or the contractor on your behalf) apply through seai.ie. You'll need: your BER certificate, the contractor's quote, proof of ownership, and identity. The application is free. SEAI usually approves within 2-4 weeks.
Step 5: Work Gets Done
Once approved, the contractor schedules the insulation work. This typically takes 1-3 days for attic insulation, depending on loft size. They'll install the insulation to the standard required by SEAI (usually 200-300mm depth for attics).
Step 6: Get Paid
After the work is complete and certified by SEAI, the grant is paid to you directly. You pay the contractor in full first, then claim reimbursement from SEAI. Payments arrive 4-8 weeks after completion.
Insulation Options & Costs
Attic/Loft Insulation
The most common choice. Your loft is where 25–30% of heat loss happens. Adding or upgrading insulation to 200-300mm depth (about 10-12 inches) cuts heat loss dramatically. Cost: €2,500–4,000 for a typical Dublin semi-D. After a €2,000 grant, you pay €500–2,000.
Blown-in cellulose or mineral wool is standard. Easy to fit, works around pipes and electrical boxes, no disruption. Takes 1-2 days.
Rafter Insulation (Between Rafters)
If you plan to use the loft as living space (converted loft room), you insulate between the rafters instead of at ceiling level. More expensive (€3,500–5,500) because it involves removing roof linings. Rarely grants your full €2,500, so you'll pay €1,500–3,500 after the grant. Worth it only if you're converting the space.
Combination Approach
Some Dublin homeowners add a thin layer of rafter insulation plus bulk insulation at ceiling level. Improves comfort in upper rooms and fully captures the grant. Budget €3,500–4,500; after grant, you pay €1,500–2,500.
Energy Savings & BER Impact
Roof insulation typically reduces heat loss by 20–30%, depending on your current insulation level. If your BER is currently D or E (common for Dublin homes built 1980–2000), insulation alone can bump you up to C or even B.
What does that mean in euros? Most Dublin homeowners save €200–400 per year on heating costs after attic insulation. In a cold winter (not rare in Dublin), savings can reach €500–600. Over 10 years, that's €2,000–6,000 saved—far more than the cost after grant.
Bonus: if you're planning to sell, a better BER rating and demonstrably lower heating costs appeal to buyers and can increase property value by 2–3%.
What's Covered by the Grant?
Covered
Insulation materials (fibreglass, mineral wool, cellulose), labour, scaffolding if needed, membrane/vapour barriers, sealing air gaps, BER upgrade certificate (second BER after work).
Not Covered
Roof repairs, plumbing or electrical upgrades, structural work, new roof installation, ventilation improvements (unless integral to insulation work).
If your roofer discovers roof damage during the insulation work, that's a separate bill. It's why the contractor's initial visit matters—they'll spot issues and give you a clear picture of total cost.
Better Energy Homes Scheme Overview
The SEAI roof insulation grant is part of the wider Better Energy Homes scheme, which also covers: heating system upgrades, window/door upgrades, wall insulation, and renewable energy (solar PV, heat pumps). You can stack grants for different measures, so if you're also replacing windows or upgrading heating, plan the work together to maximise savings.
Why Apply Now?
The February 2026 increase to €2,500 is recent and generous. Budgets can change; past schemes have had caps and waiting lists. The sooner you apply, the sooner you lock in the grant and start saving on heating. Dublin's damp winters mean good insulation is a real comfort and cost issue—this grant makes it affordable.
Waiting lists are not currently long, but demand is high. Don't assume the budget will be there in 2027.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Using a non-registered contractor: Tempting to hire a cheaper roofer, but the grant only applies to SEAI-registered contractors. You'll pay full price and lose the grant. Not worth it.
Skipping the BER: You must have a valid BER. Budget for it upfront (€80–150). Without it, no application.
Not reading the quote carefully: Understand what's included. Some contractors separate labour, materials, and admin fees. Clarify everything before signing.
Expecting instant payment: The grant is reimbursed after work is complete and inspected. You pay the contractor upfront, then claim back. Budget for this timing.
Finding a SEAI Contractor in Dublin
Search the SEAI Better Energy Homes contractor list (seai.ie/contractor-directory). Filter for Dublin and insulation services. Get at least 2 quotes. Ask: How long will the work take? Do you handle the SEAI application? What's your warranty? What happens if you find roof damage? Good contractors answer all of this clearly.