If you’re renting in Ireland, you may have heard about government-backed home energy upgrade grants. One of the most talked-about schemes in recent years is the €5,000 Home Upgrade Grant, aimed at making homes warmer, more efficient, and more sustainable.

But can tenants benefit from this funding? Who exactly qualifies? And how does the application process work?

In this guide, we’ll break it down clearly – especially for renters and landlords – and show how tools like your tenant resume and rental history can support a successful outcome. At Tenantin.ie, we’re committed to giving tenants the edge, not only in finding a place but also in making that home more comfortable and cost-effective.

What Is the €5,000 Home Upgrade Grant?

The €5,000 Home Upgrade Grant is part of Ireland’s wider Home Energy Upgrade Scheme, administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). It provides financial support to cover part of the cost of home improvements that make properties more energy-efficient.

This includes upgrades such as:

• Wall insulation (internal or external)
• Attic insulation
• Heating system upgrades (e.g. heat pumps)
• Solar panels
• Window and door replacements

While the grant value can vary depending on the works done, many homeowners and landlords can qualify for up to €5,000 or more in support per property.

Who Qualifies for the Grant?

The grant is typically available to homeowners, but it also applies to landlords of rental properties. This is where tenants can benefit too, especially if they’re renting long-term and have a good relationship with their landlord.

To qualify, the applicant must:

• Own a home built before 2011 (for insulation grants)
• Use a registered contractor from the SEAI-approved list
• Have not previously received funding for the same works
• Ensure the home has a Building Energy Rating (BER) before and after upgrades

For rental properties, the landlord applies for the grant. However, many landlords are open to applying if they know the property will be well looked after – which is where a tenant with a strong rental history and complete tenant resume can help drive the conversation.

Can Tenants Benefit from the Grant?

While tenants cannot apply for the grant directly, they can absolutely benefit from the upgrades if their landlord agrees to carry them out.

Upgraded homes lead to:

• Lower monthly energy bills
• Better air quality and heating
• Reduced environmental impact
• A more comfortable living space

In many cases, landlords are more open to these works if they’re approached by tenants who are committed, organised, and show they’re planning to stay long-term.

That’s where your Tenantin.ie tenant resume comes in handy. With a free tool that highlights your current employment, rental history, and references, you can easily show landlords why it’s worth investing in the home you’re renting.

How Tenants Can Encourage Their Landlord to Apply

If you’re renting in Ireland and would like to benefit from the grant, here’s how to open the conversation with your landlord:

1. Research the Grant First

Visit the SEAI website and understand the options available. Know the potential savings and what the application involves.

2. Use Your Tenant Resume as Leverage

Show your landlord your tenant resume, which includes proof of timely payments, clean tenancy, and job stability. A strong record builds trust and makes landlords more likely to invest in upgrades.

If you haven’t already, you can create and download your free tenant resume from Tenantin.ie in just a few minutes.

3. Present the Benefits Clearly

Explain how the upgrade increases property value, makes the home easier to rent in future, and how the grant can cover a large portion of the cost.

4. Offer Flexibility for Works

Let your landlord know you’re willing to work around the timeframe and allow access for the contractors. This kind of cooperation goes a long way.

How Landlords Can Apply for the Grant

If your landlord is interested, here’s the general process they’ll follow:

1. Book a BER assessment to understand the current energy rating
2. Choose a contractor from SEAI’s approved list
3. Get a quote for the upgrade works
4. Apply through the SEAI portal and await approval
5. Have the works completed within a specified time frame
6. Submit proof and receive the grant payment

Landlords can also opt for a One Stop Shop service, where the upgrade and grant process are handled together by registered providers.

Why It Matters for Tenants with Long-Term Plans

If you plan to stay in your rental for a year or longer, advocating for energy-efficient upgrades can save you hundreds of euros a year in bills. Plus, you get a warmer, healthier home without having to move.

By being proactive and professional – supported by your tenant resume and a record of good tenancy – you show landlords that their investment in the upgrade is worthwhile.

At Tenantin.ie, our platform makes it simple for tenants to:

• Create and maintain their tenant profile
• Log their rental history for future references
• Download a professional resume to share with landlords

This resume can be used not only to secure new rentals but also to show your current landlord why they should invest in you as a tenant.

Is the Grant Likely to Continue?

Yes. The Irish government is committed to meeting climate targets and reducing residential emissions. The Home Energy Upgrade Grant is a key part of that plan and is expected to remain available through 2025 and beyond.

In fact, funding levels are increasing, and the government continues to announce additional supports for landlords who choose to make their rental properties more energy-efficient.

Now is the ideal time to act, especially as energy costs remain high and sustainable living becomes a greater focus.

Renting in Ireland with Confidence

Whether you’re a local or new to the country, renting in Ireland comes with its fair share of hurdles. But by staying informed, building a trustworthy profile, and advocating for a better standard of living, you can improve your experience dramatically.

And with Tenantin.ie by your side, you don’t have to do it alone.

From building a free tenant resume to keeping track of your rental history, our tools are designed to give you the confidence and credibility you need – not just to find a home, but to thrive in one.

Start your free tenant profile today at Tenantin.ie