Renting during Covid-19
Covid-19 has brought significant challenges to both landlord and tenants. On the 27th of March, the Dáil passed an emergency legislation which included measures to protect and support tenants during this uncertain time.
The Covid-19 Act 2020 introduced moratoriums on both rent increases and notices of termination. This means that rent increases and notices of termination cannot be issued while this legislation is in place. If either was issued prior to the 27th of March 2020, its effect is paused until the legislation is lifted. The legislation is to be lifted three months following its commencement, however it may be extended depending on the Health Authories advice to the government.
Advice for tenants renting
While tenants are obliged to continue to pay their full rent, the government have taken several measures to provide tenants with financial support. If you are renting and your employment has been affected by Covid-19, we recommend that you apply for rent supplement which is a means-tested payment from the government. The Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment may also be available to you if your income has been affected. In order to apply for either payments, you can contact your local Intreo Centre by phone or email. For safety purposes, the applications can be done online so you do not have to visit the Intreo Centre itself.
For further information on the emergency measures taken during Covid-19, the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) have a helpful download available to the public, which answers frequently answered questions on the subject. Please click on this link to download their guide.