BHIS-HTB2026

BHIS - Historic Thatch Buildings Stream 2026

This funding stream is part of the broader Built Heritage Investment Scheme, administered in Co. Longford by the Longford County Council Heritage Office on behalf of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. 

The purpose of the scheme is to protect the heritage value of historic thatched roof buildings across Ireland, including dwellings and other structures.

For 2026, the Historic Thatched Buildings Grant will offer funding offers of up to €20,000. Any historic thatched structure built before 1970, including domestic or commercial properties, is eligible to apply for grant funding under this scheme.

However, please note that the level of grant-aid available is dependent on the funding support received from the Exchequer, and therefore final grants may be significantly less than the maximum outlined above. The grant is typically used as a supplementary grant, to support historic thatch and may be blended with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage's standard Thatching Grant - more information on which may be found at gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/thatching-grant/

How to Apply:

Please read the scheme Circular and associated documents below:

BHIS-HTB 2026 - Circular for Local Authorities

BHIS-HTB 2026 - Application Form A 

Applicants and their thatchers should read the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage's information resources, including their Conservation Advice Series, in particular the edition on Thatch - please click here to view a PDF version of this. 

The application should be supported by estimates/quotations, brief method statement by the thatcher to outline the works required, the thatching and flashing materials. Please also include, as far as possible, brief history of the building (when you think it was built, any changes and extensions, previous rethatching you are aware of;  a small number of photographs and a map of the site showing the building.

The closing date for applications is Friday 26 September 2025.

Please forward the completed application and supporting documentation to heritage@longfordcoco.ie

In the email subject line please write BHIS-HTB 2026 and the name of your building or townland. 

The email should have the following attached:

  • Application Form A, signed and dated
  • A map marking the location of the building,
  • Photographs showing the front of the building, the rear, detail of each face of the thatch roof and chimney.
  • Estimate of costs,

  • A short method statement written by the thatcher or a conservation specialist setting out the work to be undertaken and the materials, source of the materials, and methods they will use in the repair.