Rental Law Changes March 2026
From 1 March 2026, Ireland is introducing a new framework for the rental sector.
These changes apply to new tenancies only and are designed to create a more stable, predictable system for both landlords and tenants. Tenancies created before this date are not affected by the new rules.
The aim of the reforms is to create a more consistent, transparent, and predictable rental system for both landlords and tenants.
Nationwide Rent Control: Rent Increases
Rent Pressure Zones (RPZ) are removed and replaced by a single national rent control framework: the same rules now apply across the entire country. This creates a simpler, more consistent system.
Under the new rules:
Rent can be reviewed once every 12 months
Any increase is capped at:
2% or
Inflation (CPI), if lower
While the cap is tighter it provides stable, predictable rental growth and fewer disputes around rent reviews.
Market Rent Reset
Landlords can reset rent to market rent when:
A new tenancy begins after the previous tenant has left voluntarily
A new tenancy begins after the previous tenancy has ended due to tenant breach or due to property no longer meets tenant's needs (for example, it's too small)
After a 6-year tenancy cycle (Tenancy of Minimum Duration)
Landlords must set the rent at a level that reflects market rent. On the same day the rent is set, the landlord must notify both the tenant and the RTB, including details of the previous rent, when it was last set, the tenancy registration number, and at least 3 comparable rental properties from the RTB register to support the new rent level (same area, similar size, bedrooms, and BER rating). The RTB can investigate and sanction landlords who do not follow these requirements.
Security of Tenure: When Can a Tenancy End
For tenancies created before 1st of March 2026, nothing changes:
During the first 6 months of a tenancy, any landlord can end the tenancy without giving a reason
After 6 months, the landlord can end a tenancy under these grounds:
Sale of the property within 9 months
Property required for landlord or family use
Substantial refurbishment or renovation
Breach of tenant obligations
Property no longer suits tenant
Change of use
For tenancies created after 1st of March 2026:
During the first 6 months of a tenancy, any landlord can end the tenancy without giving a reason.
After 6 months, the grounds change depending on the number of tenancies a landlord has or if they are registered companies:
Larger landlords (4 or more tenancies) and registered companies: after 6 months, the tenancy becomes of unlimited duration and can only be terminated if:
Tenant breaches their obligations
Property no longer suits tenant
Smaller landlords (1 to 3 tenancies): after 6 months, the tenancy becomes of minimum duration (runs in 6-year cycles).
During the first 6 years of a tenancy, a smaller landlord can end a tenancy under these grounds:
Tenant breach
Property is no longer meets tenant's needs
Landlord is experiencing financial or other hardship
Landlord needs the property for themselves or for an immediate family member (spouse, civil partner, child, stepchild, foster child, adopted child, parent, step-parent or parent in-law)
After 6 years, a smaller landlord can end a tenancy under these grounds:
Tenant breach
Property is no longer meets tenant's needs
Intention of selling the property
Substantial refurbishment or renovation
Landlord needs the property for themselves or for a family member (spouse, civil partner, child, stepchild, foster child, adopted child, parent, step-parent or parent in-law, grandchild, grandparent, brother, sister, nephew or niece)
Chang of use
Opportunities & Benefits
While the reforms introduce more structure, they also reshape the rental market in a way that can benefit both sides.
Landlords:
More predictable, stable rental income
Clearer long-term planning through defined tenancy cycles
Market rent flexibility at tenancy commencement
Reduced volatility in rent-setting rules
Tenants:
Greater long-term security of tenure and protections
Less risks of evictions
Predictable and limited rent increases
Improved transparency in rent setting
More stable housing conditions
How Fastnet Property Services Can Help
At Fastnet Property Services, we closely monitor all legislative changes affecting the Irish rental market to ensure landlords remain fully compliant and well-positioned.
We can help you by:
Setting rent correctly in line with RTB requirements
Managing compliance with new notice and reporting obligations
Advising on optimal timing for tenancy changes and rent reviews
Reducing risk around documentation and RTB inspections
Maximising long-term rental performance under the new system
If you are considering letting or managing a property, we provide clear, practical guidance to help you adapt confidently to these changes while protecting your investment returns.
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