What rights do students have when renting a room in digs or lodgings in Ireland?

7 Sept 2026, 22:30
Q A Reader Asker

What rights do students have when renting a room in digs or lodgings in Ireland?

A RentWise Team Answered by

If you rent a room in your landlord’s home, you are usually a licensee rather than a tenant covered by the Residential Tenancies Act, so the RTB may not deal with disputes. Your rights will mainly depend on the written or agreed terms, including rent, the deposit, notice, access and house rules. Ask for these terms in writing and keep records of payments and messages. If the arrangement is a self-contained rental or the landlord does not live there, different tenancy rules may apply; Citizens Information or a solicitor can help clarify your position.

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