Understanding Rent Pressure Zones
- Powell Property Office
- Jun 10
- 3 min read
If you’re a landlord or tenant in Cork, it’s crucial to understand the regulations surrounding Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) and rent reviews. According to the 2024 Housing Commission Report, a significant 74% of Ireland’s private rental properties are located within RPZs, designed to protect tenants from excessive rent hikes. And with the government's announcement yesterday evening, the rest of the country is likely to come under Rent Pressure Zones in the near future.
But what are RPZs? How do they work? And how do you lawfully conduct a rent review if your rental property is in an RPZ?
The nature of RPZs is likely to shift as the government passes their new legislation, but the details of that still need to be confirmed. For now, we will focus on the current rules and regulations surrounding RPZs.
What Are Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs)?
Rent Pressure Zones are specific areas where rent increases are legally controlled, usually in more urban areas where there is a larger demand for housing. These zones aim to keep rental prices more affordable for tenants amid Ireland’s ongoing housing challenges. All of Cork City rental properties fall within these zones, and a strong portion of Cork County rentals do as well.
How Do RPZs Affect Rent Increases?
For properties located within an RPZ:
Rent can only be increased once every 12 months.
The maximum allowable rent increase is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) published monthly by the Central Statistics Office (CSO).
Many landlords mistakenly assume a flat 2% increase is always allowed — this is not correct.
The maximum increase can be up to 2%, but the actual figure may be lower depending on the CPI figures.
For properties outside of RPZs:
Rent can only be increased once every 24 months, with no specific cap like those in RPZs.
The Complex Process of Conducting a Valid Rent Review
If you want to increase the rent on your Cork City rental property, the rules are detailed and strict. It’s not just about deciding to raise rent; you must also follow a legal process that includes:
Providing tenants with a minimum 90-day notice of the rent increase.
Serving two separate notices to the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) within specific deadlines.
Ensuring all paperwork complies with RTB requirements to avoid penalties.
What Happens if You Don’t Follow the Rules?
Failing to comply with rent review regulations can have serious consequences:
The RTB can claw back any excess rent charged unlawfully.
Landlords risk fines of up to €15,000 for breaching rent review rules.
Why Choose a Local Cork Estate Agency for Your Rental Needs?
Navigating Ireland’s rental laws can be overwhelming, especially with evolving regulations like RPZs - which are only set to keep changing. Powell Property specialises in helping landlords stay fully compliant while maximising their rental income.
We offer:
Expert guidance on RPZs and rent reviews
Assistance with all RTB notices and documentation
Market insight to set competitive and fair rents in Cork City
Full liaison with RTB to handle all regulation and compliance requirements
And more!
Are you ready to stop stressing about your rental property? Give us a call and let us handle everything for you! Click the button below to go to our Contact Us page.
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