€505 Million in Housing Potential: 2,700 Derelict Sites Mapped

A new online database identifies more than 2,700 derelict residential properties across Ireland, with a combined development value exceeding €500 million. The site, derelictproperties.ie, was built by software engineer Michael Gannon to centralize data that is currently scattered among various local authorities.

Gannon created the resource before the government announced new tax measures in the recent budget. He stated that his goal was to expose the scale of the issue and demonstrate that some councils have not adequately marketed or identified the sites under their control. He described the current documentation process as fragmented and inconsistent.

The database estimates that the listed properties could be converted into homes worth €505 million. This valuation assumes a price range between €365,000 and €510,000 per unit. The higher end of that range reflects the concentration of these buildings in major cities where real estate prices are highest.

Gannon calculated that owners of these properties owe €49.5 million in outstanding derelict site levies. His figures include the standard 7 percent annual tax on the site valuation, along with 1.25 percent monthly interest on existing debts. He noted that 64 owners owe more in levies than the current market value of their properties.

Local authorities do not currently disclose the specific amounts owed by individual owners. Gannon believes the website will help potential buyers and investors find these assets directly from official records rather than through traditional estate agents. He argues that this direct access offers a realistic path to acquiring real estate below typical market rates.

The government is moving to address the issue through the Finance Act. Starting in January, local authorities will have a legal duty to maintain a list of derelict sites and submit it to the Revenue Commissioners. Revenue will then take over the collection of the annual 7 percent levy from the councils. Owners will have until mid-2028 to pay any back levies.

Minister of State for Housing John Cummins recently called dereliction a scourge on society. He emphasized that while grants exist, the tax collection mechanism serves as an enforcement tool. He told the budget briefing that the message to owners is clear: put the property to good use or face the tax.

Existing support schemes include a vacant property refurbishment grant of up to €70,000 for single units. Investors converting above-shop premises into housing can claim up to €135,000. Gannon estimates that 62 percent of the properties in his database qualify for these grants. The government plans to launch a national digital register with maps and standard details for each property next year.