Understanding Rent Increases under Irish Law

Renters in Ireland often face challenges related to rent increases. Understanding your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 and the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2019 can help you navigate these situations more effectively.

What the Act Says About Rent Increases

The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 provides clear guidelines on how and when a landlord can increase rent. Any rent increase must comply with the terms set out in this legislation.

How Rent Increases Are Determined

According to the Act, rent can only be increased after a certain period, typically once every 12 months, unless otherwise specified in your lease agreement. The landlord must provide tenants with a minimum of 90 days' written notice of any increase.

• The notice must include the amount of the new rent and the date from which the new rent will be payable.
• The landlord must state the reason for the increase and demonstrate that the new rent aligns with local market rates.

Tip: Always ensure the rent increase notice is compliant with legal requirements and use official resources like the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) to verify market rent rates.

Challenging a Rent Increase

If you believe a rent increase is unfair or doesn't comply with the Residential Tenancies Act, you can challenge it. To do this, submit a dispute resolution application to the RTB.

Form: RTB Dispute Application Form. Available for download from the RTB's official website. Use this form if your landlord imposes an unjustified rent increase.

FAQs

1. What can I do if my landlord raises the rent unexpectedly? If rent is increased without proper notice, contact the RTB for guidance and potentially submit a dispute.
2. How is a lawful rent increase carried out? A landlord must give at least 90 days notice and justify the increase according to market rates.
3. Can I refuse to pay a rent increase? You may refuse if the notice does not comply with the law. Otherwise, consult the RTB for dispute resolution options.

How to File a Dispute Against Rent Increase

1. Prepare the necessary documentation such as the rent increase notice and any previous communication with your landlord.
2. Visit the RTB's website to download the Dispute Application Form.
3. Complete the form accurately and submit it along with your evidence.
4. Await a response from the RTB, which will inform you of the hearing or mediation options available.

Key Takeaways

• The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 regulates rent increases in Ireland.
• Landlords must provide a minimum of 90 days’ notice for any rent increase.
• Rent increase disputes can be filed with the RTB using the official forms.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need more in-depth assistance, consider reaching out to organizations such as:

• Citizens Information - Offers comprehensive guidance on renting rights.
• Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) - The principal organization for tenancy dispute resolutions in Ireland.
• Threshold - Provides support and advice for housing and rent-related issues.

---

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

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Rent Reviews Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Moving Out Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Notices of Termination & Eviction Shared Housing, Digs & Room Rentals Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Local Property Tax Social Housing, HAP, RAS & Benefits Dispute Resolution & RTB Hearings Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Student, Traveller & Other Special Tenancies Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Services & Emergency Help Landlord Duties, Registration & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters Refunds, Compensation & RTB Orders