
If you’re a landlord in Ireland, especially in popular areas like Dublin 4, Cork city centre, or Galway’s West End, understanding rent review rules for 2026 is crucial. Rent reviews aren’t just about increasing rent – they are tightly regulated, and getting them wrong can lead to disputes or even penalties from the Residential Tenancies Board.
This post breaks down the essentials you need to know: Rent Pressure Zones, the 2% cap on increases, the mandatory 90-day notice period, and the RTB forms you must use. Plus, we’ll show how FindQo.ie helps landlords like you keep on top of local market trends to price your property right every time.
Since 2017, RPZs have shaped how landlords can increase rents. They cover areas with high demand and limited supply to protect tenants from excessive hikes. As of 2026, RPZs include large parts of Dublin (Dublin 1, 2, 4, 6, and surrounding postcodes), Cork city, Galway city, Limerick city, and some commuter towns.
In these zones:
If your property is outside an RPZ, there is more flexibility, but you still must follow proper procedures.
If you’re in an RPZ, you can only increase rent by a maximum of 2% per year. This cap is not optional – it’s the law. For example, if the last rent review was 12 months ago and the rent is €1,200 per month, the maximum increase you can apply now is €24 (2% of €1,200), making the new rent €1,224.
Key points about the cap:
Trying to increase rent above this limit can lead to a complaint to the RTB and potential penalties.
Before you increase rent, you must give your tenant at least 90 days’ written notice. This notice period is mandatory whether you are inside or outside an RPZ.
The notice must include:
Failing to provide proper notice can invalidate the increase and delay your ability to raise rent.
The RTB mandates specific forms to make rent reviews official and transparent:
Using these forms correctly ensures your rent review complies with the Residential Tenancies Act. You can find these forms on the RTB website, but FindQo.ie also links to relevant official resources, making it easier for landlords to stay compliant without hunting around.
One of the biggest challenges landlords face is knowing the “right” rent to charge. Overpricing risks longer vacancy periods; underpricing means missing out on income. This is where FindQo.ie shines.
On FindQo.ie, landlords can:
By checking FindQo.ie regularly, you can benchmark your rent against current market rates and ensure your rent reviews are reasonable and competitive. This reduces the chance of disputes and helps you attract reliable tenants quickly.
No. Legally, rent can only be increased once every 12 months, regardless of whether you’re inside or outside an RPZ.
The rent increase is invalid until proper notice is given. You cannot enforce the new rent until the tenant receives the full 90-day notice.
You can apply to the RTB for dispute resolution using Form RR2. The RTB will assess if the proposed increase is fair and complies with the law.
Yes. The 2% cap applies to all RPZs nationwide, from Dublin to Limerick, without exception.
You can download all necessary forms from the RTB website, and FindQo.ie provides direct links and guidance to simplify the process.
Rent reviews can be tricky, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can navigate them smoothly. Use FindQo.ie to stay informed about local rent trends, access essential resources, and connect with agents who understand your area. Don’t risk costly mistakes – start using FindQo.ie today and make your rent reviews hassle-free.
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