Fix it Up: Balance up your zinc levels in Co Tipperary

A single-storey cottage structure on just over 0.4 of an acre at Seskin Hill in south Tipperary, situated on the road between Rathgormack and Carrick-on-Suir.

Tell me more about the place...

An unusual construction of part timber and zinc and part stone, the house has no septic tank, nor evidence that there ever was one, according to the selling agent. However there was a toilet, with perhaps cruder sewerage facilities, such as might have been commonplace up to the 1960s.

Built on an elevated site in a rustic part of the county, this house has been unoccupied for about three decades. It is in poor condition, requiring at least part demolition and complete refurbishment.

And the bad news?

The property does not currently have a residential property tax number, which will be necessary if a potential buyer is to avail of grants that may be available to help with possible renovation.

The current owner is willing to provide and sign the necessary affidavits to the effect that the house was in fact an occupied home in the past. Much of the fabric of the property is in poor condition, namely those timber and zinc walls, most of which will probably have to be replaced. The original floor is also collapsed in places.

The good news?

Seskin Hill is situated only about seven kilometres from Carrick-on-Suir and Rathgormack and the views of the Comeragh Mountains from the site are breathtaking. Electricity links are close by and can be reconnected, while a water supply is already available. The existing roof is in relatively good condition and has afforded some protection to the fabric of the building over the years it has been empty.

How much to buy it?

The asking price is €70,000.

And to fix it up?

It is estimated that the property could be made habitable for around €145,000, up to €75,000 of which might be re-couped under the various grants schemes including those for vacant and derelict homes, as well as energy upgrade grants from the SEAI. Though essentially a demolition and re-build, subject to planning, there are a few interesting parts of the building that may be worth saving, such as the gable walls and chimney breasts.

What will I end up with?

A two-bedroom, roughly 700sq ft cottage on a decent garden plot with bucolic views. Cottages are a difficult enough to find in this area and the current structure sets a planning precedent. A sale had been agreed for this building at €73,000, but that party dropped out in favour of another property.

Who do I talk to?

Pat Quirke of PF Quirke (052) 6121622 will make sure you don’t go through the floor.