Property owners being urged to inspect twice a year to ensure rental properties are complying with housing standards

The Irish Property Owners’ Association is calling on all property owners to inspect their rental properties at least twice a year.  As part of that inspection they should be mindful of the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2017.  These are the minimum standards required to be adhered to by all rental properties.  By inspecting properties frequently they can ensure that their rental properties continue to comply with the regulations.

Stephen Faughnan addressing members said: “All rental properties must comply with Housing Standards when initially let and also during the tenancy.  Frequent inspections ensure that items that need addressing are identified and dealt with in a timely manner.  Landlords should be aware that there is a requirement for window restrictors on some windows and that there may be a need for appropriately placed carbon monoxide alarms.  Spring is an excellent time to inspect, contact your tenant and make an appointment.  Bringing along a copy of the standards and checking them against the property would help identify any issues that require action.” 

The IPOA call on the State to review the reporting procedure for inspections.  The current system is a pass/fail situation which does not accurately reflect the accommodation available for rental in Ireland.  This lets down landlords, tenants and the State.  Local Authorities are responsible for inspecting rental property and have to work with the 100% correct or fail system.  A blocked vent or no microwave in a property could result in a fail of a property that was refurbished to a high standard.   What is required is a system that reflects the general standard and quality of rental accommodation in Ireland.  A certificate of compliance should be issued after a property is inspected by the Local Authority.