Renters' Rights and Responsibilities in Ireland

Renting a home in the Republic of Ireland comes with specific rights and obligations for both tenants and landlords, all governed by the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 and subsequent amendments, as well as the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2019. This guide will help you understand these key regulations and how they impact your rights as a renter.

Understanding Rent Increases

According to the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords can increase rents annually, but only if they follow legal guidelines and provide appropriate notice. This notice must be given at least 90 days in advance and must indicate the new rent.

How to Respond to Unlawful Rent Increases

• Review the notice to ensure it adheres to legal requirements.
• If it doesn't, you can dispute the increase using RTB's Dispute Resolution Service.

Tip: Keep all rent-related documents for your records to ensure a strong case if disputes arise.

Dealing with Repair Issues

Under the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2019, landlords must maintain properties to standard conditions, including structural repair, heating, and safety standards.

Steps to Request Repairs

• Inform your landlord in writing about the required repairs.
• If ignored, contact the RTB or local council for assistance.

Facing Evictions

Evictions can be stressful, but understanding your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act is crucial. Landlords must provide valid reasons and adhere to proper notice periods.

Challenging an Unfair Eviction

• Verify if the notice complies with legal requirements.
• File a dispute with the RTB within 28 days if you believe the eviction is unjust.

The process involves submitting documentation such as a Tenancy Termination Notice, which can be downloaded from the official RTB website.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) - Offers dispute resolution and tenancy registration services.
• Citizens Information - Provides detailed guides on tenant rights and support options.
• Your Local Council - Assists with housing standards and landlord compliance.

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1. What can I do if my landlord increases rent unlawfully? If you receive an unlawful rent increase notice, challenge it with the RTB by following their dispute resolution process.
2. How can I ensure repairs are made to my rented home? Start by notifying your landlord in writing; if repairs are not made, contact the RTB or local council.
3. What should I check in an eviction notice? Ensure the notice specifies the reason for eviction, adheres to the legal notice period, and contains correct dates.

1. How to challenge a rent increase in Ireland
   1. Step 1: Review the notice - Carefully check if your landlord’s notice meets legal requirements.
   2. Step 2: Respond in writing - Send a written objection within the permitted timeframe.
   3. Step 3: File a dispute - Contact RTB if your dispute isn't resolved.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Understand your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.
• Keep documentation for any disputes or issues.
• Use resources like the RTB to safeguard your tenancy.

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