Rent Pressure Zones (RPZ) Guide 2026

Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) cover Dublin, Cork, and practically every major urban area in Ireland. Understanding them is vital for both landlords and tenants.

The 2% Rule

In an RPZ, rents cannot increase by more than 2% per annum (or the rate of inflation, if lower).

• Example: Current rent €2,000.
• Max Increase: €40 (Total €2,040).

Exemptions (The Loophole)

The rule does not apply if:

1. New To Market: Property never rented before.
2. Substantial Change: Deep renovation that alters the "nature" of the accommodation (e.g., adding a bedroom, extending by 25%).
   • Note: Just painting or new furniture does NOT count.

New 2026 Regulations

• Tenure Security: "No-fault" evictions strictly limited.
• Registry: Annual registration with RTB is now mandatory.

For Tenants: How to Check

1. RTB Calculator: Use the RTB website to check eligibility.
2. Disputes: If your landlord demands a 10% hike, request the calculation in writing. Illegal raises can be contested freely via the RTB.

For Landlords

The RPZ cap stays with the property, not the tenant.

• Leaving a unit vacant for 2 years does technically reset the rent, but vacancy taxes may apply.
• Strategy: Focus on long-term tenants to minimize void costs, as yield growth is capped anyway.