Finding accommodation doesn’t have to be a chore but it does take some time and effort. It’s important to remember that there is more to consider than just the size of your bedroom, how close you will be to college or to your friends! Our Student (Tenant) information below is full of useful details and resources.
Helpful websites to seek tenant information are the www.rtb.ie (Residential Tenancies Board) and www.threshold.ie. The following is for students in rental houses/apartments
Tenant Guide
and Renting for the First Time
Sharing with a Property Owner
•The normal landlord and tenant laws do not cover this situation and disputes
•It is recommended in these arrangements that both parties draw up a written agreement to cover issues such as deposits, rent, bills, house rules and notice requirements. As a student this is very important to avoid conflict/disputes during the tenancy.
While Maynooth University offers students a listing service, it should be noted that Maynooth University is not a regulatory body in matters of student accommodation. The service is provide only on a basis that no liability attaches to the University for any subsequent actions, disagreements or shortcomings on the part of the tenant, landlord or any other person.
It should also be noted that accommodation information has been supplied by landlords. Students should inspect accommodation to satisfy themselves that the information provided is correct and that the accommodation offered is suitable for their use. No warranty is given or implied by Maynooth University in respect of the suitability, condition, quality or safety of any of the listed properties. If, upon inspection, a student is in doubt about any aspect of the accommodation, he/she is strongly advised not to avail of the accommodation and they are also requested to inform the MaynoothStudentpad Service in writing ([email protected]) of any problems that arise.
The following link will assist you with difficulties and resolving disputes.
Please note Maynooth University offers the Maynooth Studentpad site in good faith and is intended for general information purposes and should not be relied upon as the basis for making any decision. It is offered as a courtesy to both students and local landlords. Please be aware that the properties have not been inspected by the University and University does not carry out Garda Vetting on prospective landlords. You should note, we do not retain information on the performance of these accommodations year to year.
It is highly recommendable to book accommodation once you have visited the property. If you are unable to visit the property in advance then it is important to know what happens if the property is not what you anticipated. The following is a suggested checklist and key questions you should consider asking. You will find samples of checklists and key questions by clicking here
The following is an overview of Household Costs & Key Questions to ask landlords prior to making any arrangements. It is recommended in these arrangements that both parties draw up a written agreement to cover issues such as deposits, rent, absences, bills, house rules and notice requirements. As a student this is very important to avoid conflict/disputes during the tenancy.
The RTB provides very helpful documents in understanding these terms.
If you are sharing a house then you may be asked to sign a joint lease or a separate tenancy/agreement. If you sign a joint lease then you will all be responsible for each other's debts and damages (think carefully if this is a responsibility you wish to have). If you have your own tenancy/agreement then if there are any discrepancies, the argument is between yourself and your landlord/agent and should not involve your housemates.
Points to Note
Rents must be agreed before the contract is signed since this is a binding agreement. Remember you can negotiate with the landlord/agent over rents, opt out clauses etc. If you are not happy with the agent's/landlord's suggestions.
You cannot give notice during the period of the contract, if no such clause has been added to the contract. If you leave before the end of the fixed term then you (or your housemates) remain liable for the remaining rent.
Always read your license/lease or any documentation you are provided by your landlord/agent.
Remember to get a copy of your agreement or any guidelines that have been discussed!
In rental properties you are responsible for:
Click here for a guide to minimum standards for rental properties.
| Carbon Monoxide If you have gas appliances in your house, Carbon Monoxide is a possible danger. It's invisible and odourless, but it can kill. Watch out for: · Gas flames that burn orange or yellow rather than blue. · Sooty stains on or around your appliances. · Solid fuels that burn slowly or go out. |
Carbon Monoxide, Know the symptoms: · Unexplained drowsiness. · Giddiness when standing up. · Headaches. · Sickness and Diarrhoea. · Chest pains. · Unexplained stomach pains. |