Finding a home in Dublin, Ireland

Accommodation in Dublin is not what it used to be. Landlords can pick and choose their tenants. On occasion, you can negotiate and if there is something you strongly feel needs to be changed, you can try and arrange this before paying the deposit.

Useful tips

Only deal with the actual landlord. It is not advisable to enter into agreements with tenants that are already living there.
Start looking as early as you can when you arrive in Dublin. The city is a popular destination for international and Irish students. Give yourself as much time as possible.
Use the websites from the list above – search ‘sharing’ options to find rooms in occupied houses.
Join local forums through Facebook to get in touch with students who might be going home or know where rooms are available.
Go to see a property before you take it – do not agree to pay for a room you haven’t visited.
You must have the 1st month’s rent and your deposit in advance. It’s advisable to have the deposit with you when viewing a room, for a better chance of success. ALWAYS REQUEST A RECEIPT WHEN PAYING YOUR DEPOSIT.
Bring references with you when you visit a property; a character reference from your employer, a previous landlord reference and landlords may request a letter from your work confirming you have a regular income.
It is advised that you do not take accommodation without signing a contract.
This protects you and your landlord. ‘Sub-letting’ options are available and more common in Dublin now, at a reduced price. Be cautious about taking these rooms where the current tenants do not want your name on the lease.
The current average cost of renting a single room in Dublin is €700. There are cheaper options available if you are willing to share a room.

Finding a home in Dublin

Dublin city and the greater Dublin area is made up of numbered zones. The higher numbers are further away from the city centre. We recommend looking for accommodation from D1 to D9. Dublin is divided by areas North and South of the river Liffey. The Northside (the O’Connell street side) of Dublin is represented by odd numbers, D1, D3, D5, D7 and D9. The Southside (where you can visit Temple Bar) is represented by even numbers, D2, D4, D6, D8.

D1

The Northside city centre of Dublin with many shops, cinemas and restaurants. Walking distance from ISI’s buildings in Meeting House Lane and Parnell Square, O’Connell Street, Henry, Street, and Parnell Street. The area is safe but, as with any capital city, caution is advised walking around the city, and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

D2

The Southside city centre. There are many boutique shops, cafés and restaurants. Accommodation is generally more expensive but prices vary.

D3

Walking distance to the city centre, some areas are considered unsafe. When viewing a house, familiarise yourself with the area – it will be different during nighttime hours than during the day.

D4

Walking distance to the city, one of the most expensive areas to live in Dublin and very safe. Full of shops, cafés, and restaurants.

D5

Well serviced by buses and trains to the city. Journey times are 20 to 40 minutes. It is a safe area but caution is advised in some areas.

D6

One of the most popular areas of Dublin to live in. A vibrant area with cafés and restaurants, it is a good location to walk or cycle to the city with great bus systems. The prices can vary and can be expensive in Rathmines and Ranelagh, being the most popular. There are affordable options there and it’s worth a look.

D7

Walking distance to ISI Dublin and the city centre. Well serviced by buses and the Luas. D7 has some unsafe areas but has been transformed recently into a vibrant and bustling area popular with young students and professionals, such as Stoneybatter, Cabra and Phibsborough.

D8

A good distance for walking and cycling to the city. Dublin 8 is currently undergoing improvements, though there are areas considered less safe. Rents are generally more reasonable and there are some lovely areas.

D9

Some areas such as Drumcondra are walkable, and further out is Santry which is well served by bus routes from the airport. Both areas are considered safe, they are full of amenities, cafés and restaurants.

Useful websites

www.rent.ie
www.daft.ie
www.dublincityapartments.ie
www.property.ie
www.myhome.ie
www.let.ie
www.adverts.ie
www.gumtree.ie
www.abode.ie
www.easyroomate.com

Viewing check point list

Bring a friend – second opinions are helpful.
Bin collection – ask the landlord if there are extra costs to be paid.
Bills – ask if bills are included in the rent. If not, check how much the monthly costs are and how they are paid.
Windows – are the windows single or double-glazed – double glazed helps keep the heat in and reduce noise from outside.
Toilets/shower – check the condition of bathrooms, and the water pressure in taps and give one toilet a flush to make sure it’s working. Most Irish homes do not have instant hot water and will have a boiler/immersion to heat the water.
Storage – is there enough storage available in your room/common areas?
Meet your roommate – If you are sharing a room, ask to meet the person in advance or offer to go for a coffee.
Mattress – if you feel it is not in good condition, discuss this with your landlord before paying the deposit.
The location – familiarise yourself with the area, bus/train routes, would you feel safe traveling home at night?
Home insurance – ask your landlord if they have home insurance. If you plan to rent long term there are reasonable contents insurance policies available, with a little research.
Mould – if you see black spots in the bathrooms or bedrooms, do not take the room without addressing it with your landlord. It is unhealthy and can be worse in the winter months.
Cycling – is there somewhere to store your bike securely at night?
Transport – find out where the nearest bus stops, train/luas stations are.
ALWAYS ask for a receipt when paying a deposit and ask for a contract. Be cautious where landlords or tenants want you to take a room with no contract or lease.