Threshold has good stuff as well, but it needs to be updated.
A spate of apartment scams in Dublin has highlighted the need to be vigilant when you are looking to rent. Save yourself €2,000 or more by reading these tips from Threshold's advice staff:
1. Always meet a prospective landlord in the accommodation.
2. Ask for identification, for example, a business card or an Irish Property Owner's Association membership card.
3. If you are dealing with an agent, check that they are a member of a reputable association (for example, IAVI)
4. Get the landlord's full contact details, including a landline telephone number, home address or place of business.
5. Only agree to take the property when you are totally satisfied. Ask the following questions before making your decision:
* Is the landlord registered with the Private Residential Tenancies Board. You can check if the property is currently registered by going to
* Is there a lease or rent book?
* Who has access to the property?
* Who do I contact if I have a problem?
* Why did the previous tenant leave?
6. Never hand over cash. Pay the deposit and first month's rent by cheque or bank draft and get the landlord's bank details for future rent payments.
7. Always get a proper receipt, for example, on headed paper or a till receipt. A scrap of paper will not do.
8. Get the keys and check that they open and close the doors of the property.
9. If you are suspicious in any way, contact the Gardaí immediately.
10. If you have questions about any of the above or if you need advice, please contact your nearest Threshold advice centre:
21 Stoneybatter, Dublin 7
T: 01 678 60 96
email:
[email protected]
22 South Mall, Cork
T: 021 427 88 48
email:
[email protected]
3 Victoria Place, Merchants Rd., Galway
T: 091 563 080
Email:
[email protected]
26 Catherine Street, Limerick
T: 061 405 400
Email:
[email protected]