Mistakes I Made Renting in Dublin – And How to Avoid Them

I lost €2,200 in my first 3 months in Dublin — not to theft, but to rental scams and ignorance.

Here are the 5 mistakes I made so you don’t have to:

Mistake #2: Paid Deposit Without Receipt

My second landlord took €800 cash “as goodwill”. No contract. When I left, he refused to return it. No proof = no refund.

✅ Fix: Always pay via bank transfer. Get a signed lease + deposit receipt.

Mistake #3: Ignored the RTB (Residential Tenancies Board)

I didn’t know: All deposits must be protected with the RTB within 14 days. Mine wasn’t. Lost it forever.

✅ Check: Ask landlord for RTB registration number. Verify at rtb.ie.

Mistake #4: Signed an Illegal Contract

Contract said: “No guests allowed”, “Landlord can enter anytime”. Both are illegal under Irish law.

✅ Know Your Rights: - Maximum deposit = 2 months’ rent
- Landlord must give 24h notice before entering
- Minimum lease = 6 months

Mistake #5: Didn’t Check “Rent Pressure Zone” (RPZ) Rules

Dublin is an RPZ. Rent can only increase by max 4% per year. My landlord raised it by 15%. I paid it — unaware.

What I Do Differently Now

• Always view property in person (or video call if abroad)
• Sign lease registered with RTB
• Take move-in photos + inventory list
• Join “Dublin Renters” Facebook group for advice

Renting in Dublin is tough — but knowledge is your best protection.