Like many aristocratic families, the Carnavons have struggled to keep their castle. By 2009, it was in dire need of major repair, with only the ground and first floors remaining usable. Water damage had caused stonework to crumble and ceilings to collapse; at least 50 rooms were uninhabitable. The 8th Earl and his family were living in a cottage on the grounds. Repairs needed for the entire estate were estimated to cost around 16 million Euros, 2.5 million of which was urgently needed for just the castle.