How to Become a Tenant
A Simple Guide to Renting from a Private Landlord in Ireland
The below steps will guide you in becoming a tenant
Finding a home to rent
1
Know Your Budget
- Figure out how much you can afford to spend on the rent. You will also need to consider other bills like utilities and an internet connection.
- A good rule to follow is not to spend more than 30% of your income on rent.
2
Renting options
Private Market Rentals:
- Apartments: Independent units within larger buildings, offering different sizes and facilities.
- Houses: Individual properties that sometimes have a private outdoor space.
House Sharing:
- Shared Houses/Apartments: Renting a room within a larger house or apartment, with shared common areas.
- Shared Accommodation Platforms: Online platforms connecting individuals seeking shared housing arrangements.
Student Accommodation:
- On-Campus Accommodation: Provided by universities and colleges, offering students rooms or apartments within or near the campus.
- Off-Campus Student Housing: Private accommodation options specifically designed for students, including purpose-built student accommodation buildings.
Serviced Apartments:
- Short-Term Rentals: Fully fitted out apartments available for shorter lengths of time, ideal for professionals on temporary duties or individuals who are on the move.
Rent a Room:
- Renting a room in a home: Homeowners can rent out a room in their property.
Affordable Housing Schemes:
- Affordable Rental Schemes: Initiatives providing affordable rental options through partnerships between the government and private developers.
3
Start the Search
Gather necessary documents to support your application, including:
- Look for available properties on popular online websites like Daft.ie or MyHome.ie, or social media platforms.
- When you have found a property you might be interested in, you should go to viewings to see what you think of the place, see if it is suitable to your needs and ask questions about the property and area.
4
Securing your home
Deposits and reference:
- Once you have chosen a home, your landlord will ask you for a number of things.
- Landlords normally ask for a security deposit, often the same as one month’s rent, to secure the property.
- They may also ask you for references from previous landlords or employers to show you’re a reliable tenant.
- Click here to see a handy guide to make moving home easier for you.