If you’re renting in Ireland, one of the most pressing concerns for tenants in 2025 is whether or not your landlord can raise the rent — and if so, by how much. With property markets in constant flux and living costs already high, it’s crucial to know your rights and responsibilities.
Whether you’re new to the rental market or a long-term tenant, understanding the rules around rent increases can help you avoid unexpected costs. Having a well-organised tenant resume and detailed rental history also puts you in a stronger position when dealing with landlords or moving to a new home.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about rent increases in 2025.
Rent Increases in 2025: What’s Allowed?
As of 2025, rent increases in Ireland are governed by strict rules, particularly in Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs). These are areas where rental prices are high and rising quickly.
If your tenancy is within an RPZ, your landlord can only raise the rent:
- By 2% annually, or
- In line with inflation (measured by the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices, or HICP), whichever is lower
Rent reviews can take place once every 12 months, and landlords must give at least 90 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
If you’re not in an RPZ, landlords can raise the rent to what is considered the current market rate, but this must still be justified with comparable properties in the area.
How to Check if You’re in a Rent Pressure Zone
To understand your rent increase rights, the first step is checking if your property is located within a designated RPZ. You can do this by visiting the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) website and using their RPZ lookup tool.
These areas are reviewed and updated regularly, and in 2025, many towns and suburbs previously outside RPZ limits have now been included due to rising demand.
If you’re unsure, your rental history and location details logged in your tenant profile on Tenantin.ie can help you cross-reference your eligibility for RPZ protection. Keeping these details up to date not only protects you legally but also improves your chances when applying for new rentals.
What Your Landlord Must Do to Raise the Rent
Rent increases are not automatic. In fact, for a rent increase to be legal, landlords must follow a specific process. In 2025, the rules are as follows:
- Written Notice: A rent review must be issued in writing, with full details of the current and proposed rent.
- Notice Period: You must receive the notice at least 90 days in advance of the new rent taking effect.
- Calculation Evidence: If you are in an RPZ, the landlord must include evidence showing the calculation based on legal limits.
- Comparable Properties: If outside an RPZ, the landlord must provide data on at least three similar properties in the area to justify the increase.
Failure to follow any of these steps may render the rent increase invalid. Keeping track of notices and rent amounts in your Tenantin.ie profile helps build a reliable rental history that you can refer back to or use as evidence.
Common Mistakes Tenants Make (And How to Avoid Them)
While many landlords follow the law, some may try to take advantage of tenants who don’t know their rights. Here are a few common missteps and how to avoid them:
- Not questioning large rent increases
If your landlord proposes a raise over 2%, verify if your home is in an RPZ. Use the RTB’s rent calculator to confirm the maximum increase allowed. - Losing track of previous rent reviews
You should only face one rent review every 12 months. If you’re unsure when your last one occurred, check your Tenantin.ie account where your rental history is stored for easy access. - No formal rent increase notice
A rent increase must be in writing. A casual message or conversation does not meet the legal requirement. Keep records of all communications in case of disputes.
By keeping everything documented and organised — from rent payments to notice letters — your tenant resume becomes a powerful tool for protecting yourself and demonstrating reliability to future landlords.
How to Dispute an Unfair Rent Increase
If you believe your rent increase is illegal or unjustified, you have the right to dispute it with the RTB. Here’s how:
- Review your tenancy details
Compare the proposed increase with what’s legally permitted. - Use your rental history
Refer to your tenant profile to track your rent amounts, dates, and landlord communications. - Submit your case to the RTB
File a dispute online with supporting documents such as notice letters, screenshots, and proof of payments.
With a free resume and centralised records through Tenantin.ie, you’ll have all the documentation you need ready to go if things escalate.
The Role of Your Tenant Resume in Rent Negotiations
A well-prepared tenant resume is more than just a rental CV. It shows landlords that you’re responsible, organised, and serious about your tenancy.
Your resume can include:
- Verified rental history
- Employment and income information
- References from past landlords
On Tenantin.ie, tenants can build their profile easily using the free tool, then download a polished tenant resume in minutes. You can share this directly with private landlords, which improves trust and transparency.
If you’re facing a rent increase or planning to move, a complete resume helps you demonstrate that you’re a desirable and informed tenant — giving you an edge in today’s competitive rental market.
Why Renting in Ireland in 2025 Requires a Smarter Approach
With laws changing, RPZs expanding, and demand increasing, renting in Ireland in 2025 means being proactive and informed. Gone are the days when tenants could rely on verbal agreements or casual arrangements. Now, proper documentation and knowledge of the law are your best allies.
Platforms like Tenantin.ie help renters navigate these challenges by offering:
- A free tenant profile builder
- Secure storage for rental history and rent reviews
- A downloadable tenant resume
- Premium services like “On a Hunt”, which boost your visibility to landlords and automate your rental search
Whether you’re staying put or looking for a new place, taking control of your renting experience is easier when you have the right tools.
Stay Prepared and Stay Informed
Yes, your landlord can raise the rent in 2025 — but only within the limits of the law. By staying informed, checking your RPZ status, and keeping a clear record of your rental details, you’ll be able to avoid unfair increases and protect your tenancy.
Creating and maintaining a solid tenant resume, especially through a platform like Tenantin.ie, helps you stay ready for whatever comes next — whether that’s challenging a rent increase or applying for a new home.
Create your free tenant profile today
