Understanding Ireland's Rent Increase and Eviction Rules

Renting a home in the Republic of Ireland comes with various rights and responsibilities, especially when it comes to understanding rent increases and eviction rules. These are issues that often concern tenants, and knowing your rights can help navigate these challenges effectively.

Rent Increases in Ireland

Rent increases in Ireland are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, with amendments that regulate how often and by how much rents can go up.

When Can Rent Be Increased?

• Landlords must provide at least 90 days’ written notice before a rent increase.
• In Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs), rents can only increase by a maximum of 2% per annum.

How to Challenge a Rent Increase

If you believe your rent increase is unjustified, you have the right to challenge it. First, verify that the increase complies with legal standards and that the correct notice has been given.

You can then make an application to the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) to resolve the dispute. The relevant form for this is the Form 8 - Application for Rent Review, which can be found here.

Eviction Rules

Eviction processes are also regulated under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004. To prevent unlawful evictions, specific procedures must be followed.

Notice Periods

• A landlord must give written notice of termination, stating the reason for termination clearly.
• The notice period varies depending on the length of the tenancy.

Tenants should keep any correspondence with the landlord and seek advice immediately if they suspect the eviction is unfair.

How to Respond to an Eviction Notice

If you're facing eviction and feel your rights are being violated, you can apply to the RTB. They will provide mediation and, if necessary, adjudication to resolve the issue.

Maintaining Rental Standards

Your landlord has a duty to maintain the property according to the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2019. These standards cover structural repairs, heating, ventilation, and sanitation facilities.

Actioning Repairs

If repairs are needed and your landlord isn't responsive, report the issue using the RTB's dispute resolution service. This process involves filling out the RTB Form 12 - Application for Breach of Tenant Obligations, found here.

1. What if my landlord increases rent unfairly? You should first check if the increase fits legal requirements. If not, dispute it through the RTB.
2. How can I stop an eviction? If you believe an eviction is unlawful, contact the RTB for dispute resolution and potential legal advice from housing charities.
3. What are my landlord's repair obligations? Landlords must keep the property safe and habitable, adhering to regulations in the Housing Standards 2019.

1. How to challenge a rent increase? Review the notice for compliance with regulations. If it doesn't comply, write a formal objection and apply to the RTB for dispute resolution.
2. How to respond to an eviction notice? Verify the validity of the notice. If needed, contact the RTB to dispute incorrect procedures, and consider seeking professional legal advice.
3. How to report repair issues? Document the issues and contact your landlord. If unresolved, submit an application for breach of obligations to the RTB using Form 12.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

For further guidance and support, the following resources are available:

• Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) - Provides information, dispute resolution, and rent review.
• Citizens Information - Offers advice on tenant rights and housing benefits.
• Threshold Ireland - A housing charity offering tenant support and advocacy services.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act 2004
2. Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2019

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