Ireland does not currently operate a general statutory deposit-protection scheme for private tenancies, so a subtenant’s deposit is usually held by the tenant who sublets the room or by the landlord under the agreement. Get written terms, a receipt, and a record of the room’s condition, and check that the landlord has authorised the subletting. If you live with the owner, you may be a licensee rather than a tenant, meaning RTB protections may not apply; otherwise, the arrangement may fall under the Residential Tenancies Acts. The RTB or a solicitor can advise on the correct route and any dispute based on the facts.