How to Rent a Home in Ireland

Navigating the process of renting a home in Ireland for the first time can feel overwhelming. Numerous questions might arise: Should I consult a lawyer? Are appliances typically included in rentals? How can I discover quality rental properties? Which neighborhoods will best suit my needs? These are just the tip of the iceberg. Dive in for answers to these pressing questions and gain insights from our members who've made Ireland their home.

"Relocating to a new country can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding a place to live. If you're planning to move to Ireland, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information about renting an apartment. From finding a rental property to understanding the legalities involved, this guide will help you navigate the rental market in Ireland with ease.

How do you find a rental property in Ireland?

There are several ways to find rental properties in Ireland. Online property portals like Daft.ie, Rent.ie, and MyHome.ie are popular platforms where landlords and real estate agents list available properties. Local newspapers also have property listings. Additionally, you can engage the services of a real estate agent to help you find a suitable property based on your preferences and budget.

Does Ireland have an MLS type system?

Unlike the United States, Ireland does not have a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) system. However, the online property portals mentioned earlier serve a similar purpose, providing a comprehensive database of available rental properties across the country.

Do brokers have licenses and how do I know if they are licensed?

Yes, real estate agents or brokers in Ireland are required to hold a license from the Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA). You can verify an agent's license by checking the PSRA's public register on their website.

Should I buy or rent in Ireland?

The decision to buy or rent depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. Renting can offer more flexibility, especially if you're not planning to stay in Ireland long-term. However, with rising rental prices, buying might be a more cost-effective option if you plan to stay for several years.

Is it difficult to find rentals in Ireland?

Finding a rental property in Ireland can be challenging, especially in popular cities like Dublin, where demand often exceeds supply. It's advisable to start your search well in advance and be prepared to act quickly when you find a suitable property.

What documents are required when renting an apartment in Ireland?

When renting an apartment in Ireland, you'll typically need to provide proof of identity (passport or driver's license), proof of employment (recent pay slips or a letter from your employer), and references from previous landlords. Some landlords may also require a bank statement to verify your financial stability.

Do I need a lawyer when renting an apartment in Ireland?

While it's not mandatory to have a lawyer when renting an apartment in Ireland, it can be beneficial, especially if you're unfamiliar with Irish rental laws. A lawyer can review your lease agreement to ensure it's fair and legal. The cost for this service can vary, but you can expect to pay around €150-€250.

How long is the typical lease for?

The typical lease term in Ireland is 12 months, but shorter or longer terms may be available depending on the landlord's preferences and the property's demand.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes, it's standard practice in Ireland to pay a security deposit before moving into a rental property. The deposit is usually equivalent to one month's rent but can be higher in some cases.

What other upfront costs are there when renting?

Besides the security deposit, you may also need to pay the first month's rent upfront. Some landlords may also charge an administration fee, although this is less common.

Are utilities included in the rent?

Whether utilities are included in the rent can vary from property to property. In some cases, utilities like water, electricity, and heating may be included in the rent. However, it's more common for tenants to set up and pay for these services themselves. The cost of utilities can vary but expect to pay around €100-€200 per month.

Are furnished or unfurnished rentals more popular in Ireland?

Furnished rentals are more common in Ireland, especially in city centers. A furnished rental typically includes basic furniture, a refrigerator, a stove, and sometimes a washing machine. Unfurnished rentals, on the other hand, usually only include kitchen appliances. The choice between furnished and unfurnished largely depends on your personal needs and budget," said one expat living in Ireland.

Expats Talk about How they Found their Home

"We came to Ireland on a pre-move visit to get a 'feel' for the different areas in and around Dublin. In the months previous to our move we scoured the homes for rent list on www.daft.ie which is THE website for real estate on which virtually all real estate agents and prive landlords advertise their properties. We eventually found our home via an estate agent," commented an expat living in Dublin.

"Originally we sought a retirement area south of the USA to live that was going to give us a good life for our retirement income (social security and savings).. Having discovered expatexchange.com over three years ago we found Ireland ranked highly in a listing there for cost of living affordability and we speak the language! In our additional research we found a gent and his wife who had preceded us to Tobercurry in County Sligo, who had retired and relocated 7 years before us. We struck up internet chatting and with the friendship that developed, our move was especially easy," said an expat in Tobercurry.

"Finding a place to live in Ireland can seem like a daunting task, but by taking a few steps and researching your options, you will be able to find the perfect home for you. The first step is to figure out what type of accommodation you need, as this will determine the range of options available to you. Once you have narrowed down the type of accommodation, it’s time to search. This can be done by using online resources such as Daft, Rent.ie and Property.ie. These websites allow you to search for rentals based on location and needs such as price, size, amenities, etc. If you are unable to find a suitable rental online, you may want to consider working with a real estate agent or exploring other rental options, such as flat-shares or house swaps. Be sure to also check for apartment or house viewings in newspapers and notice boards. Finally, visit the local rental area in person to get a good sense of the different options. With some patience and research, you can find the perfect place to call home in Ireland," remarked one expat who made the move to Ireland.