Dáil approves Housing and Residential Tenancies Bill 2026

The 34th Dáil has approved the Report and Final Stages of the Housing and Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026.

The legislation introduces significant changes to Irish rental law and social support eligibility. Under the newly approved provisions, new tenancies created on or after 1 March 2026 will be subject to rolling six-year Tenancies of Minimum Duration (TMD) to increase tenant stability. Landlords will be permitted to reset rents to market rates for new tenancies from this date only under specific conditions, including when a tenant departs voluntarily, breaches their obligations, or if the dwelling is deemed unsuitable.

For smaller landlords with three or fewer tenancies, the Bill restricts the ability to terminate a TMD during its six-year term. Such landlords may only terminate under limited circumstances, specifically in cases of financial hardship or if a close family member requires the property for personal use. Additionally, the legislation increases penalties under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 and provides for the publication of a Rent Price Register.

The Bill also expands the powers of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) regarding mediations and adjudications.

Beyond private tenancies, the legislation establishes statutory residency requirements for social housing eligibility and accesses to homeless services under the Housing Act 1988, placing lawful and habitual residency on a statutory footing. It also introduces a safety net service allowing local authorities to provide emergency accommodation on a night-to-night basis to ineligible individuals to prevent rough sleeping, while expanding the grounds under which emergency accommodation can be withdrawn.