Navigating Renting Rights in Ireland

Renting in Ireland offers various protections for tenants, thanks to key legislation like the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 (as amended) and the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2019. Whether you're dealing with rent increases, potential eviction, or needing repairs, understanding your rights is crucial for a smooth renting experience.

Understanding Rent Increases

Your landlord must comply with specific rules when increasing rent. These include providing a detailed notice indicating the new rent, its effective date, and how it was determined. Rent can only be increased once every 12 months for annual tenancies, and every 24 months for tenancies less than two years old.

Challenging Rent Increases

If you believe the rent increase is unjust, you can challenge it through the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB). File a complaint using the Rent Review Dispute Resolution Form. Submit it within 28 days of receiving the notice.

Eviction Procedures

Evictions must follow strict procedures outlined by the Residential Tenancies Act. Your landlord must provide a valid reason and adequate notice. The length of notice depends on the duration of your tenancy:

• Less than 6 months: 28 days
• 6 months to 1 year: 90 days
• 1 to 3 years: 120 days
• 3 to 7 years: 180 days
• 7 to 8 years: 196 days
• 8+ years: 224 days

Requesting Repairs

Under the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2019, your landlord must ensure the property is in livable condition. If repairs are needed, communicate this in writing to your landlord. Keep records of all correspondence and, if the issue persists, consider escalating it to the RTB.

Documenting repair requests helps protect your rights if further action is needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you're facing renting issues and need assistance, several Irish resources are available:

• RTB: Offers dispute resolution services and guidance on rights and responsibilities.
• Citizens Information: Provides a wealth of information on housing rights and entitlements.
• Threshold: A housing charity offering support and advocacy for tenants in Ireland.

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1. What should I do if I receive a rent increase notice? Review the notice to ensure compliance with legal regulations. If you have concerns, discuss them with your landlord. If unresolved, file a complaint with the RTB.
2. How much notice is required for eviction? The notice period varies based on the tenancy duration, ranging from 28 to 224 days.
3. How can I ensure my rented house is up to standard? Request repairs in writing and refer to the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations if needed. Engage the RTB if the issue persists.

1. How to challenge a rent increase? Review the notice to ensure compliance, communicate your concerns to your landlord, and lodge a dispute with the RTB if necessary.
2. How to file a repair request? Write a detailed request to your landlord outlining the needed repairs, keep a copy, and follow up if repairs are not made in a timely manner.

• Knowing your rights empowers you to handle rent increases, evictions, and repairs effectively.
• Always maintain open communication with your landlord and seek clarity when needed.
• Use the resources available to help resolve any renting issues you might face.

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