Eoin Ó Broin
Question:328. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for an update on the housing agency review of the HAP limits. [48552/26]
View answerThursday, 25 June 2026
Questions (328)
Written answers
Since 11 July 2022, each local authority has statutory discretion to agree to a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) payment up to 35% above the prescribed maximum rent limit. Discretion can be increased up to 50% above the prescribed maximum rent limits for Homeless HAP tenancies in Dublin. Local authorities also have additional flexibility to apply a couple HAP rate to single-person households. This additional measure recognises the challenges experienced by single-person households, and the fact that both single and couple households have a one-bed need.
My Department reviewed the use of these measures and their impact on the overall affordability of the HAP scheme for tenants. This exercise highlighted that the affordability and sustainability of HAP tenancies continue to be impacted by pressures in the private rental market.
My Department is now nearing completion of its review of the existing HAP rent limits to ensure there is sufficient support under the HAP scheme to assist eligible households in accessing accommodation in the private rental sector.