A self-contained unit may be covered by the Residential Tenancies Acts if it is a separate dwelling rented under a tenancy agreement, but the label alone does not decide this. If you live in the landlord’s home, the arrangement may instead be a licence, with fewer statutory protections. For a covered tenancy, the landlord generally must serve a valid written notice of termination, give the required notice period and meet any applicable legal grounds and procedures. Do not leave solely because of an informal demand; the RTB can deal with disputes, while Threshold or a solicitor can advise on your specific arrangement.