Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
693. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the steps his Department is taking to ensure that local authorities provide transparent eligibility and allocation rules for cost-rental accommodation; the consideration being given to adjusting income thresholds to be eligible for cost rental; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15137/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraCost Rental housing is a key tool in the Government's efforts to make rents more affordable and renting more secure. It is a new form of housing tenure in Ireland, established in 2021, where the tenant pays a rent set to cover the cost of delivering, managing, and maintaining the home. Cost Rental is primarily intended for people who do not qualify for social housing, but who may be facing acute affordability pressures in the private rental market.
Eligibility for Cost Rental homes is restricted by net household income (gross income less income tax, PRSI, USC, and pension contributions), which is assessed at the point of application. In August 2023, the Government increased the net household income limits to €66,000 for Cost Rental homes in Dublin and €59,000 elsewhere. In line with the commitment in the Programme for Government, my Department is keeping the parameters for Cost Rental income eligibility limits under review, in order to ensure that the scheme effectively targets these homes at the intended tenant cohort.
Local Authorities must follow the generally applicable Regulations regarding eligibility and allocation for Cost Rental homes, and they have a responsibility to be transparent in how they process applications. Local Authorities indicate in their advertising materials how they intend to assess someone’s ability to afford the rent, and they apply the chosen considerations in a consistent manner when allocating tenancies.
Like other Cost Rental landlords, Local Authorities can propose to the Minister bespoke ‘Allocation Plans’ for particular homes, giving priority to certain households based on factors like local residence, local employment, or attending a local educational establishment. For example, Monaghan County Council has a Plan covering a number of apartments in Monaghan town, where priority is given to local residents and local workers. All other Local Authority Cost Rental homes are advertised and allocated under the general Regulations.
