We are living in the midst of an unprecedented housing crisis in Ireland, with a record number of TDs doubling as landlords as well as record highs in rents. Everyone reading has likely experienced or heard from a friend of a landlord trying to take advantage of their tenants’ lack of knowledge when it comes to tenancy law.
Now, more than ever, it’s important to know your rights and to stand together with the other members of our community.
Here are five essential rights every tenant in Galway should know about as well as how you can use them to protect yourself.
Did you know that your landlord is legally required to provide you with a rent book or written proof of payments? Many renters don’t, and landlords often take advantage of this by failing to keep proper records.
A rent book is an official document that tracks rent payments, deposits, and other key details about your tenancy. If your landlord hasn’t given you one, you have the right to request it.
A rent book helps protect you in case of a dispute. If your landlord ever claims you haven’t paid rent, you’ll have proof. It also ensures transparency in your tenancy agreement.
Protect yourself from disputes, and always ask for your rent book.
Your landlord cannot enter your home unannounced without your permission. They must give reasonable notice (usually 24 hours) before entering for inspections or repairs, except in emergencies like a fire or flood.
If your landlord shows up unannounced, tries to pressure their way in, or even enters your home when you’re not there, they’re violating your legal rights.
Stand up for your right to privacy in your own home.
Landlords are legally responsible for keeping the property in good, safe, and habitable condition. This includes essential repairs like fixing leaks, broken heating, electrical faults, or structural damage.
Yet, many tenants face delays, excuses, or outright refusal when requesting necessary repairs. Some end up paying for fixes themselves because the landlord won’t act.
Don’t let landlords neglect your home—demand timely repairs.
Galway is classified as a Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ), meaning landlords cannot raise rent by more than the legal limit. They must also provide at least 90 days’ notice before increasing rent.
Yet, many renters still face illegal rent hikes because they don’t know the rules.
✔ Rent increases are capped (linked to inflation but cannot exceed a certain percentage).
✔ Your landlord must provide written proof showing that the increase follows RPZ regulations.
✔ 90 days’ notice is required for any rent increase.
✔ You must have lived in the property for at least 12 months before a rent increase can occur.
Don’t get caught off guard, and check if your rent hike is legal.
One of the biggest misconceptions among renters is that they must fight battles alone—but this isn’t true. You have the right to unionize and collectively fight for fair housing. In Galway, the Community Action Tenants Union (CATU Galway) is organizing tenants to demand better conditions, challenge unfair rent hikes, and hold landlords accountable.
You don’t have to battle the housing crisis alone—organize and fight back.
CATU Galway aided in two no-fault evictions being overturned in the month of Janaury 2025 alone.
Landlords and letting agencies are counting on us not to know our rights in order to maintain their grip on the housing market, but knowledge is power. Challenge unfair renting practices wherever you can, and fight for a better housing system in Galway and throughout Ireland. If you’re ready to stand in solidarity with the rest of your community, CATU is here to help. Join a union and stand up to unfair housing practices.
Bígí Linn.
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