If you’re renting in Ireland or planning to move here, you’ve likely come across the term rent caps. But what exactly are they, are they still in place in 2025, and how do they affect your rights as a tenant? With rising costs and stricter regulations, understanding rent caps is essential — especially if you’re building your tenant resume or trying to strengthen your rental history to stand out to landlords.
Knowing your rights as a renter can not only help you avoid overpaying, but also give you the upper hand in a competitive rental market. Let’s break it down.
What Are Rent Caps?
Rent caps are government-imposed limits on how much a landlord can increase rent each year. In Ireland, these rules primarily apply to Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) — areas where rents are rising rapidly and housing supply is limited.
As of 2025, the entire country has now been designated an RPZ. That means rent increases are subject to the same national rules, no matter where you live.
This matters for every tenant, whether you’re a newcomer building a rental history or someone simply renewing a lease.
How Rent Caps Work in 2025
Under current legislation, annual rent increases in RPZs are capped at the rate of general inflation, as measured by the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), with a maximum increase of 2% per year. This ensures that rent hikes stay predictable and manageable.
To benefit from these rules, tenants need to:
- Know the date of their last rent review
- Keep records of previous rent amounts (this is part of your rental history)
- Be aware of their landlord’s obligations under the law
💡 Tip: Creating a free tenant resume on Tenantin.ie makes it easier to keep track of this information and present it clearly to new landlords.
Why Rent Caps Matter for Your Tenant Resume
When you’re applying for a new rental, landlords often look for tenants with a clear, professional profile. That includes your:
- Rental history
- Previous landlords’ references
- Employment details
- Personal information
A tenant resume from Tenantin.ie pulls all this together in one easy document. And because your rent history is part of your rights as a tenant, it helps landlords see that you’re informed and responsible.
Tip: Start building your free tenant resume today to improve your chances of getting noticed — especially in high-demand areas.
What Tenants Should Watch Out For
Even with rent caps in place, tenants should be aware of common issues:
- Illegal Rent Increases: If your rent is raised above the permitted cap, it could be unlawful. Check with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) or use your records to verify.
- Unrecorded Rent Changes: If you pay cash or don’t get a rent receipt, you could lose proof of your rent level. This affects your tenant resume and can cause problems in disputes.
- New Tenancies: Rent caps only apply to existing tenancies. If you’re starting a new lease, landlords can set the rent at market rates — but they must justify the price using at least three local comparisons.
This makes it more important than ever to track your rental history and compare listings properly.
How Tenantin.ie Supports Tenants
Tenantin.ie is more than just a listing platform. It’s a free tool designed to empower tenants with better information and more control.
Here’s how we help:
- Free Tenant Resume: Fill in your rental history, employment, and personal details to create a professional profile you can share with private landlords.
- “On a Hunt” Premium Feature: Get daily alerts from multiple sources and automatic enquiries sent for you. We also offer dedicated account support to help you find the right home.
- Visibility Boost: With your tenant resume, we promote your profile to landlords actively searching for tenants — increasing your chances in a competitive market.
Don’t wait until a listing pops up. Start your free tenant resume now and get ahead in your search.
What to Do If Your Rent Goes Up
If you receive notice of a rent increase in 2025:
- Check the date of your last rent review.
- Calculate whether the new rent follows the inflation-linked cap.
- Ask your landlord for written justification.
- Keep a record in your tenant resume or personal files.
If anything seems off, contact the RTB or seek advice. A strong rental history and written record will support your case.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, rent caps still protect tenants across Ireland, but only if you know how to use them. Whether you’re new to the country, upgrading your accommodation, or planning your next move, having a strong tenant resume and clear rental history gives you an edge.
Tenantin.ie is here to make that easier. With our free tools and premium support, we help renters take control, stay compliant, and get noticed by the right landlords.
Take action today:
Set up your free Tenantin account
Build your tenant resume in minutes
Stay informed, stay protected, and stay ahead
Frequently Asked Questions
What are rent caps?
Rent caps refer to the maximum amount by which a landlord can increase rent during a specific period. These are often implemented to ensure affordability and stability in the rental market.
Are rent caps still in place in Ireland?
Yes, rent caps are still in place in certain areas known as Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs). RPZs are designated areas where rents cannot be increased by more than a specified percentage annually, aimed at protecting tenants from excessive rent hikes.
How do I know if my area is a Rent Pressure Zone?
You can check the status of your area by visiting tenantin.ie, where you’ll find updated maps and lists of all current Rent Pressure Zones across Ireland.
What rights do I have if my landlord tries to increase my rent above the cap?
If you believe your landlord has increased your rent unlawfully, you have the right to challenge this increase. You can seek advice from local tenant advisory services or consult the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) to file a formal complaint.
How often can my landlord increase the rent?
In Rent Pressure Zones, landlords can typically increase the rent once every 12 months, and any increase must comply with the annual cap set by legislation.
Are there exceptions to these rent caps?
Yes, certain exceptions apply, such as properties that have undergone substantial renovations or new properties that were not let for two years prior to a letting agreement.
What documentation should I receive regarding a rent increase?
Landlords must provide written notice at least 90 days before the proposed increase takes effect, including details of how the new rent was calculated according to RPZ regulations.
What should I do if I suspect my landlord is not complying with rental regulations?
Start by discussing your concerns directly with your landlord. If unresolved, you can reach out to tenant support services or visit tenantin.ie for guidance on how to proceed with formal complaints through appropriate channels like the RTB.
Can my landlord evict me for refusing an unlawful rent increase?
No, landlords cannot evict tenants for refusing an unlawful rent increase. Evictions must follow specific legal procedures, and wrongful evictions can be challenged through the RTB.
Where can I find more information about my rights as a tenant?
For more detailed information on your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, consider exploring resources available at tenantin.ie, where you’ll find comprehensive guides and contact information for further assistance.
By understanding rent caps and knowing your rights, you can navigate renting more confidently and protect yourself from potential issues. Always stay informed and seek advice when needed to ensure your renting experience is fair and smooth.