The home renovation errors which could land you with a huge fine

Extra.ie​

21-04-2025

Spring and summer are the best times to get stuck into any home improvements that you may want to do, but homeowners are advised that unauthorised renovations could land you with hefty fines of up to €10,000.
There are many aspects to consider when doing up your home, along with a number of rules and regulations in place for safety purposes.
As well as large fines if you are caught ignoring regulations, it could also have an impact on your home insurance coverage. Spring and summer are the best times to get stuck into any home improvements that you may want to do, but homeowners are advised that unauthorised renovations could land you with hefty fines of up to €10,000. Pic: Getty Images
Quote Devil states that failure to adhere to planning permission could result in a €5,000 fine and six months ' imprisonment.
These penalties are under the Planning and Development Act with fines of up to €10,000. It is a possibility that an enforcement notice could also be sent requiring the work to be undone.
Planning permission is required by a homeowner if they are planning on building a fence at the front of the property which is more than two metres high. These penalties are under the Planning and Development Act would fines of up to €10,000,000. It is a possibility that an enforcement notice could also be sent requiring the work to be undone. Pic: Getty Images
You will also need to seek permission if you plan on building a porch less than two metres from the road. The porch height cannot exceed four metres for a pitched roof of three for any other type of roof.
It's also the case for plans to construct paths, drains or ponds that are more than a metre above or below the level of the adjoining ground.
Under the Waste Management Act 1996, it is illegal to dispose of construction waste without a proper license. In Dublin, a permit is required if a skin is being put on a public road. Pic: Getty Images
Those caught dumping or collecting waste without the necessary permission could face fines of up to €1,500 which could increase to €10,000,000 or 10 years imprisonment in extreme cases.
It is also advisable to check with your local council for their regulations regarding skips as most councils require skip permits.
In Dublin, a permit is required if a skip is being put on a public road.
Quote Devil's Ian O'Reilly noted that 'many homeowners are unaware that even minor home improvements can carry serious legal consequences if rules aren't followed.'
He said: 'To avoid costly penalties, always check with your local planning authority before making structural changes to your home or any building.'