Rent increases

Rules on rent increases

Under the Residential Tenancies Acts, your landlord can only increase the rent if:

• At least 12 months have passed since the tenancy started or since the last rent increase
• They give you proper written notice (see below)
• The new rent does not exceed the market rate for similar properties in the area (outside RPZs), or the 2% annual cap in Rent Pressure Zones

Rent Pressure Zones

Most of Ireland’s major urban areas are designated as Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs). In an RPZ, rent increases are capped:

• Rent can only increase by a maximum of 2% per year (since December 2021)
• The 2% cap applies even if the market rent for the area is higher
• RPZ designations are reviewed regularly — you can check whether your area is an RPZ on the RTB website

Exception: If a property has not been rented for two years or has been substantially refurbished, different rules may apply. Ask us for details about your specific situation.

How much notice for a rent increase?

Your landlord must give you written notice of a rent increase. The notice must:

• Be in writing and signed by the landlord (or their agent)
• Give at least 90 days’ notice before the new rent takes effect
• State the amount of the new rent
• State the date the new rent takes effect
• Include details of three comparable properties with similar rents in the area (to show the new rent is in line with the market)
• State that you have the right to refer a dispute to the RTB

If the notice does not meet all of these requirements, it may be invalid.

How to challenge a rent increase

1. Check the notice — does it meet all the requirements listed above? Is the amount within the legal limits?
2. Check if you are in an RPZ — if so, the increase cannot exceed 2% per year
3. Talk to your landlord — sometimes issues can be resolved informally
4. Contact Threshold on 1800 454 454 for free advice
5. File a dispute with the RTB within 28 days of receiving the notice

Important: You should continue to pay your current rent while the dispute is being resolved. Do not stop paying rent.