Solicitor for a Self-Build in Ireland — When to Hire, What They Do, and the Cost
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Solicitor for a self-build: €1,500–€3,500 for the conveyance. Plus €500–€1,500 for the building contract review. Get a solicitor before you sign contracts on the site. They handle title (who owns the land), contract (what you're buying), easements (rights of way, wayleaves), and the eventual registration (the new house in your name). Most Irish self-builders use the same solicitor for the conveyance, the building contract review, and the eventual registration. Cheaper and more consistent. The solicitor also reviews the RIAI contract before you sign — €500–€1,500 for a one-pass review. The cheapest €500–€1,500 you can spend on the build.
TL;DR
Solicitor for a self-build: €1,500–€3,500 for the conveyance. Plus €500–€1,500 for the building contract review.
Get a solicitor before you sign contracts on the site. They handle title, contract, easements, and the eventual registration.
Most Irish self-builders use the same solicitor for the conveyance, the building contract review, and the eventual registration. Cheaper and more consistent.
When this matters most
You're sale-agreed on a site or signing a building contract.
When this doesn't apply
The site is purchased and the contract is signed.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a solicitor cost for a self-build in Ireland?
€1,500–€3,500 for the conveyance. Plus €500–€1,500 for the building contract review. Total: €2,000–€5,000. Most self-builders use the same solicitor for both.
When should I hire a solicitor for a self-build?
Before you sign contracts on the site. The solicitor reviews the title, the contract, the easements, and the eventual registration. Get a quote at the same time as the architect and the engineer.
What does a solicitor do for a self-build?
Reviews the title and the contract for the site. Reviews the RIAI building contract. Handles the registration of the new house at completion. Optional: handles the eventual sale if you move.
Sources
Law Society of Ireland, Find a solicitor. https://www.lawsociety.ie/
Frequently asked questions
How much does a solicitor cost for a self-build in Ireland?
€1,500–€3,500 for the conveyance. Plus €500–€1,500 for the building contract review. Total: €2,000–€5,000. Most self-builders use the same solicitor for both.
When should I hire a solicitor for a self-build?
Before you sign contracts on the site. The solicitor reviews the title, the contract, the easements, and the eventual registration. Get a quote at the same time as the architect and the engineer.
What does a solicitor do for a self-build?
Reviews the title and the contract for the site. Reviews the RIAI building contract. Handles the registration of the new house at completion. Optional: handles the eventual sale if you move.