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The Daily Insight

What happens when you inherit a house in Ireland?

Author

John Thompson

Published Feb 22, 2026

The inheritance tax will be 33% of €167,500 – which is €55,275. Inheritance tax can sometimes result in relatives who inherit property having to sell the property to pay the inheritance tax.

What you need to know when inheriting a house?

When you inherit a house, you need to consider these three things: The financial and legal responsibilities of the inherited home, including debt obligations. The tax liabilities of the inherited home, including federal estate taxes or capital gains.

How long after death is a will read in Ireland?

The Probate Office or Registry will send you a Grant of Representation by post. This usually takes around 3 weeks.

How do I avoid inheritance tax in Ireland?

Under this relief, if a child lives in the family home for three years leading up to the gift or inheritance (and has no other property themselves), the parent can then gift it to them tax-free, as long as the child then stays in the property for six years after the handover and doesn’t own other property in that time.

Can I leave my house to a friend in my will?

You can leave items to people in your will or via a living trust, or you can give them away while you are still alive, but whatever you do you must make the plans now while you are alive and well.

What happens if you inherit a house from a parent?

Inheritance tax allowances can be passed between spouses. So, if one of your parent’s or grandparent’s has already died, and didn’t use their inheritance tax allowances at the time, you may be able to inherit an even more valuable property tax-free.

How does the inheritance law work in Ireland?

Inheritance Law in Ireland. based on 1 reviews. Inheritance legislation designates the way in which successors of a deceased person can inherit the ownership rights over various assets; the legislation provides a framework in this sense applicable to close members of the family, who are usually entitled to the properties and other assets …

Do you have to pay inheritance tax if you inherit a house?

If you inherit a house that has been your main residence, you may also be exempt from tax as long as you don’t own another property, or have an interest in another property. To find out, we can put you in touch with legal experts for free and with no obligation. Simply fill in our free enquiry form below to find out more.

Do you have to register a property when you inherit it?

If you know you are selling the property, you do not need to register it in your name, as the deceased’s estate essentially sells it to the new owner. In some situations, inheriting a property can put you at a disadvantage.