What qualifies a building as derelict or vacant?
Dereliction is the almost inevitable consequence of long-term vacancy. Various agencies hold data on vacancy – Geodirectory, which uses data from An Post; ESB Networks, which has information on electricity connections; the Revenue Commissioners, which administers the Vacant Home Tax; and local authorities who have vacant homes officers. But there is no official State registry of vacancy. However, when long-term vacancy turns into dereliction properties may end up on the Derelict Sites Register.
What is the Derelict Sites Register?
Local authorities operate the Derelict Sites Register under legislation introduced in 1990. The term “derelict sites” is something of a misnomer as most of the properties on the register are derelict buildings, not sites.
Does the legislation define what constitutes dereliction?
The legislation states such properties are in a “in a ruinous, derelict or dangerous condition”; others could be “neglected, unsightly or [in] objectionable condition”, which can include having graffiti left unremoved or rubbish building up in the garden.
How is it decided what goes on?
When the council receives a complaint in relation to the condition of a property, it will arrange an inspection to determine if any action is needed. If it does, there follows a process of engagement to give the owner an opportunity put things right. There are then follow-up inspections, and local authorities will give owners every opportunity to resolve the issue, whether that is by tidying up their properties, undertaking repairs or selling. If the council’s attempts at engagement do not yield the desired results, it will serve a formal notice that the property will be placed on the register
Derelict Dublin: 10 unused northside buildings in a city gripped by a housing crisis
Derelict Dublin: 10 empty southside buildings in a city with a housing crisis
More than 14,500 vacant properties identified across Dublin, with 4,000 in city centre
Why are so many properties derelict in Dublin city centre during a housing crisis?
What are the repercussions of that for the property owner?
Properties on the Derelict Sites Register are subject to a 7 per cent levy, and interest on unpaid levies is at a rate of 1.25 per cent per month. Generally, local authorities only manage to recover the levies if the property is sold.
Any site on the register can also be considered for acquisition by the council itself, either with the agreement of the owner, or by compulsory purchase. Dublin City Council considers compulsory purchase to be a last resort, but properties that can be most readily reinstated to active residential use are the most likely to be selected.
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