What the DCB Amendment Act 2025 Means for Homeowners
The DCB Amendment Act 2025 and the Increased Grant Regulations 2026 are now in place.
These changes affect homeowners applying under the Defective Concrete Blocks (DCB) Scheme.
At HD McKay, we have long supported affected families across Donegal and beyond. We have guided clients through assessment, design, certification and grant applications. This update explains what the new law means for you.
What Has Changed?
The new legislation introduces two key changes:
- You can now apply for an increase to your remediation grant.
- The time limit for payment of grants has been amended.
This follows sustained advocacy by homeowners, professionals and public representatives.
The goal is simple.
To better support families dealing with defective concrete blocks, including mica damage.
How Much Is the Increase?
The updated regulations provide:
- An increase of approximately 7.4% to 8.7% per square metre, depending on your remediation option.
- A 10% rise in the overall scheme cap, from €420,000 to €462,000.
This reflects rising construction costs and the real expense of full remediation.
However, retrospection does not apply to Ancillary Grants.
Ancillary grants cover items such as alternative accommodation and storage.
Who Can Apply for the Increased Grant?
Not everyone will automatically receive an increase.
Under the legislation, eligible homeowners must apply for the increase.
Donegal County Council has confirmed three priority groups.
Priority 1
Homeowners who:
- Completed remediation works after 29 March 2024
- Have received their final payment
- Reached the maximum of their approved grant
These applicants will be processed first.
Priority 2
Homeowners:
- With remediation works currently underway
These applicants still have access to their existing approved grant.
Priority 3
Homeowners:
- Approved for a grant
- Yet to begin remediation works
They will be considered after the first two groups.
Given that Donegal has over 77% of all national applications, processing will take time.
What Is “Qualifying Expenditure”?
To receive an increased grant, you must show qualifying expenditure.
This means:
- Costs for approved remediation works
- Professional fees, such as engineering and architectural services
- Costs incurred after your official grant determination
- Costs not earlier than 29 March 2024
You must also show that:
- Your original grant determination was issued before 23 October 2024
- You incurred costs that were not reimbursed because you reached the scheme cap
Invoices and supporting documentation will be required.
How Do You Apply?
A dedicated section titled:
“Apply for Increase to Remediation Option Grant”
will appear on the Online Portal.
Initially, this will be available to Priority 1 applicants.
You will need to:
- Upload invoices for works and professional fees
- Submit evidence of unpaid qualifying expenditure
- Await formal assessment and written decision
If approved, you must then submit a Payment Claim through the portal.
What Should Homeowners Do Now?
Before contacting the Council, you should review:
- The DCB Amendment Act 2025
- The Increased Grant Regulations 2026
- The Ministerial Guidance Note
- The “Your Questions Answered” document
- Donegal County Council’s Enhanced Scheme Update (2 March 2026)
Council staff are currently working through implementation.
There is a high volume of queries.
Patience will be required in the early stages.
What This Means in Practice
The increased grant is positive news.
It recognises that remediation costs have risen sharply.
However, the process remains structured and evidence-based.
Clear documentation is essential.
Professional oversight remains critical.
Incorrect submissions may delay payment.
How HD McKay Can Help
HD McKay has extensive experience in:
- Building condition assessments
- Remediation option design
- Statutory compliance
- Grant documentation
- Professional certification
We understand the technical, financial and emotional impact of defective blocks.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for the increased grant, we can review your case.
Early professional advice can prevent costly mistakes later.
Need Advice?
If you have completed works, are currently on site, or are planning to begin remediation, now is the time to review your position under the new legislation.
Contact HD McKay to discuss your options and ensure your application is accurate and complete. Email enquiries@hdmckay.com or call us on 074 – 9129243
The law has changed.
Make sure your grant reflects it.
Useful Links
Further information from Donegal County Council here.
