If you’re a homeowner or investor wondering “How do I rent out a property in Dublin?”, you’re not alone. Letting a property for the first time can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory, especially in a market like Dublin. But with the right guidance, the process can be smooth, rewarding, and stress-free.

At Bespoke Estate Agents, we help new landlords take confident, informed steps into the rental market. This guide walks you through the essentials of letting in Dublin—from preparing your property to finding great tenants and getting your rental journey off to a strong start.

Know Your Responsibilities as a Landlord

Before you list your property, it’s important to understand your responsibilities. These include maintaining your property to a good standard, responding to repairs, and respecting your tenants’ rights throughout the tenancy.

Your landlord checklist:

  • Ensure your property is safe and well-maintained
  • Install and test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
  • Provide a valid BER (Building Energy Rating) before advertising
  • Understand limits on rent increases if the property has been previously let

At Bespoke, we offer step-by-step guidance to make this part easy and stress-free.

2. Prepare Your Property for Letting

A well-presented property attracts better tenants and protects your investment. Before advertising, make sure everything is in good working order and looking its best.

Checklist:

  • Check that appliances and heating systems are working
  • Deep clean and declutter
  • Consider fresh paint or small updates like lighting or hardware
  • Decide whether to let furnished or unfurnished, and reflect that in your listing

3. Set a Competitive, Fair Rent

Setting the right rent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It needs to reflect current market conditions while following any rent control rules in place.

What you should know:
Most of Dublin is part of a Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ), which limits how much rent can be charged or increased—especially for properties that have been rented before. First-time lettings may offer more flexibility, but rent still needs to reflect the market rate.

Tip: If your property has been previously rented, you’ll need to use the RPZ formula to calculate the maximum allowable rent. You can use the RTB’s official Rent Calculator here:
RTB RPZ Rent Calculator

Bespoke Insight:
We provide expert, data-driven rental valuations to make sure your rent is both market-aligned and fully compliant with RPZ guidelines.

4. Market the Property Professionally

Effective marketing can help you attract the right tenants quickly. Professional photos and well-written listings can make all the difference.

What we offer:

  • Listings on Daft.ie, Rent.ie, and other top platforms
  • High-quality photos and clear descriptions
  • Management of enquiries and viewings
  • Guidance on required BER advertising details

5. Conduct Viewings the Right Way

A well-run viewing builds trust and sets the tone for a positive landlord–tenant relationship.

Viewing tips:

  • Highlight key features like storage, outdoor space, or upgraded appliances
  • Be familiar with local amenities and transport links
  • Answer questions clearly and respectfully
  • Ensure all applicants are treated fairly and equally

6. Choose the Right Tenant

Selecting the right tenant is one of the most important steps in a successful letting. It’s about finding someone who is reliable, communicative, and a good fit for your property.

What to look for:

  • Proof of income and employment
  • References from previous landlords or employers
  • Open, clear communication

Our Fair Lettings Policy:
At Bespoke, we are committed to fairness and inclusivity. Every applicant is assessed equally based on their ability to meet the tenancy terms—regardless of background, employment type, or whether they receive rent supports such as HAP (Housing Assistance Payment).

Discrimination in any form has no place in the lettings process. We help you choose the right tenant—ethically, respectfully, and responsibly.

7. Use a Clear, Reliable Lease

Your lease should set out everything clearly to avoid any confusion. It’s the foundation of your landlord–tenant relationship and helps protect both parties.

What must be included?
Under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, a written tenancy agreement should include key details such as:

  • The names and contact details of both landlord and tenant
  • The address of the rented property
  • The rent amount, how and when it’s to be paid
  • The amount of any deposit taken
  • The duration of the tenancy
  • The notice periods required for termination by either party
  • Responsibilities for utilities, repairs, and maintenance
  • Any specific rules about pets, subletting, or smoking

This agreement should be signed by both parties and each should retain a copy. If no written lease is provided, the default terms under the Act will still apply.

We provide fully compliant, easy-to-read lease agreements tailored to your property and updated in line with current regulations.

8. Handle the Deposit Responsibly

You can request a security deposit—usually one month’s rent—to cover potential damage or unpaid rent. This deposit must be handled fairly and returned to the tenant at the end of the tenancy, unless a valid reason for deduction applies.

Best practice:

  • Take photos and complete a full inventory at move-in
  • Provide a check-in form signed by both parties
  • Keep written records to help avoid disputes

What deductions are allowed?
Under the Residential Tenancies Act, deductions from the deposit are only permitted for specific, justified reasons such as:

  • Unpaid rent
  • Damage beyond normal wear and tear
  • Outstanding utility bills
  • Breaches of the tenancy agreement (e.g. not cleaning, leaving items behind)

Landlords cannot deduct for general wear and tear or for improvements or redecorating.

Tip: Documenting everything upfront protects both parties and simplifies end-of-tenancy discussions.

9. Stay Involved and Keep Records

Even with tenants in place, your job as a landlord continues. Stay engaged and keep organised.

Ongoing tasks include:

  • Responding promptly to maintenance issues
  • Giving notice before visiting the property
  • Keeping copies of receipts, messages, and reports
  • Recording income and expenses for your tax return

Tip: Talk to an accountant about what expenses you can claim and how to manage your rental income efficiently.

10. Consider Working with a Letting Agent

Letting agents take the hassle out of the process by managing everything from marketing and screening to paperwork and maintenance.

At Bespoke, we offer:

  • Full compliance support with rent and tenancy guidelines
  • Marketing and tenant sourcing
  • Lease management and maintenance coordination
  • Peace of mind knowing everything is handled professionally

Final Thoughts

Letting your property in Dublin doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right advice and the right support, you can let confidently and profitably—while keeping everything above board.

Whether you’re letting a city-centre apartment or a suburban family home, Bespoke Estate Agents is here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to get started?
Visit www.bespoke.ie or contact our lettings team today.

Disclaimer

This guide is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Rental laws and practices may change over time and vary depending on individual circumstances. Landlords are encouraged to seek professional advice or consult official sources such as the RTB when making decisions related to property letting.