Record Q1 completions point to sustained growth in housing delivery
Nearly 7,900 homes delivered in first quarter as all regions record increases and pipeline activity strengthens
30 April 2026 | editor@breakingground.news
A total of 7,856 new homes were completed in the first quarter of 2026, marking the highest level of Q1 delivery since records began in 2011, according to new data from the Central Statistics Office.
The figure represents a 32.9% increase on the same period in 2025 and signals continued momentum in housing output, with early-year delivery typically accounting for just 15% to 20% of annual completions.
The data indicates a broad-based increase across all housing types. Apartment completions reached 2,355 units, up 33.3% year-on-year. Scheme dwellings, which include houses in multi-unit developments, rose by 34.5% to 4,082 units, while single dwellings increased by 27.8% to 1,419 units.
Scheme dwellings accounted for the majority of completions at 52%, followed by apartments at 30% and single dwellings at 18%.
Regional performance was also strong, with increases recorded in every part of the country. The Border region saw the most significant growth, with completions rising by 58% compared to Q1 2025.
The completions data aligns with other indicators of activity across the sector. More than 8,400 new homes commenced construction during the same period, while planning permissions, mortgage drawdowns by first-time buyers, and social housing delivery have all shown positive trends in recent months.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne said the figures demonstrate “real and sustained progress” in increasing housing supply, while noting that maintaining delivery levels remains a priority.
With completions typically accelerating throughout the year, the Q1 figures point to the potential for strong overall output in 2026 if current trends continue.
