A lot of what landlords get away with only works because tenants don't know the rules. You have real, enforceable rights around your deposit, notice, rent increases, repairs and eviction — in both Ireland and the UK. Here are the ones worth knowing before you ever need them.
Quick facts
- Deposit
- Can't be kept for normal wear and tear — and (UK) must be protected
- Rent rises
- Limited in pressure zones (IE) and must follow due process
- Repairs
- Your landlord must keep the place in proper condition
- Eviction
- Must follow legal notice — no "self-help" evictions, ever
In Ireland
- Registration: most tenancies must be registered with the RTB, which is also where you go to resolve disputes.
- Deposit: your landlord can't keep it for normal wear and tear — only for unpaid rent or actual damage beyond that.
- Rent increases: in a Rent Pressure Zone, increases are capped, and there are rules on how often and how much. Use our rent increase checker to test yours.
- Repairs & standards: the property must meet minimum standards; the landlord is responsible for repairs.
- Notice & eviction: there are set notice periods (longer the longer you've lived there), and a landlord must follow the proper process — they can't just change the locks.
In the UK
- Deposit protection: your deposit must be placed in a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days — if it wasn't, you may be owed compensation.
- Repairs: your landlord is responsible for the structure, heating, water and safety (gas/electrical checks).
- Notice & eviction: a landlord must give proper written notice and get a court order to evict — they can't remove you or your things themselves. (The rules around "no-fault" evictions are changing — check the current position.)
- Written terms: you're entitled to know the terms of your tenancy.
If your landlord breaks the rules
Put it in writing
Raise the issue with your landlord in writing (our members' swipe files include templates for deposits and repairs) and keep a record.
Check your deposit protection (UK)
Ask which scheme your deposit is in. If it was never protected, you may be entitled to compensation.
Escalate to the right body
Ireland: the RTB handles disputes. UK: your local council, the deposit scheme's dispute service, or a court for serious issues.
Get free help fast
Threatened with illegal eviction or harassment? Contact Citizens Information / Threshold (IE) or Shelter / Citizens Advice (UK) straight away.
Common questions
Can my landlord keep my deposit?
How much notice must my landlord give?
Who's responsible for repairs?
What is an illegal eviction?
Check the official sources
This guide is general information, not financial advice. Rules, rates and eligibility change and differ by country — always confirm the current details with the relevant official body before you act.
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