Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
156. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science for an update on the programme for Government commitment to ensure student accommodation leases align with the academic year, making it easier for students to secure housing only for the months they need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37313/25]
View answerThe Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Act 2024 came into law in July 2024.
This legislation ensures that student accommodation contracts are aligned to the academic year. This does not however, preclude students from seeking an extended lease of up to 51-weeks if they so require it for their educational or personal needs.
Section 19C of the Residential Tenancies Acts 2004-2024 states that "A landlord shall not request that a person enters or require a person to enter into a lease or tenancy agreement in relation to a relevant dwelling the duration of which exceeds a period of 41 weeks".
Additionally, the Act allows a student to provide a 28 day notice period from the 1st of May to the 1st of October, without prejudice, on a contract signed after the commencement of the Act on the 18th of July 2024.
If any student is requested to enter into a lease longer than 41 weeks, I would urge them to contact the Residential Tenancies Board who have powers to investigate breaches of this kind.
