There seems to be a bit of confusion over who needs to register with the PRTB. As more and more of us decide to become "landlords" in the strictest sense of the word by renting out a room in our homes to supplement our income, many are asking this question. All tenancy agreements of private rented accommodation ... should be registered apart from:
- Business lettings; holiday lettings; owner-occupier lettings (e.g. Rent-a-room scheme); social housing; properties where the owner"s spouse, parent or child lives.
So fear not. You don"t have to register with the PRTB if you have a lodger in your own home.
The PRTB is a government body set up to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants. This was a measure brought in essentially to bring us Irish somewhat inline with our European counterparts who have very structured mechanisms in place to protect both parties. This is why long-term renting works so well in other countries. Both parties know where they stand and there is mutual respect. Many perceive the PRTB to be some sort of big brother of the renting world, while in reality registration is of mutual benefit to both landlord and tenant. It gives both parties a clear understanding of their rights and obligations. This is the key to successful renting. Long live renting!
For more information, check out the Private Residential Tenancy Board website: www.prtb.ie
