Housing charity Threshold offers top tips to navigate the rent crisis

Given the immense difficulty of sourcing accommodation nationwide, the simple act of attending lectures has now become a minefield. Despite legislation being introduced to protect tenants, it’s still alarmingly common for students to be asked to pay more than an entire month's rent upfront.

Illegal evictions, squalor conditions and unstable living situations are rife, meaning that hostels, hotels and even cars are being used as housing. Threshold provides independent advisory services and long-term solutions for those disadvantaged by the housing system, so we encourage you to make use of their much-needed services if your housing rights aren’t being respected this year.

Check out some of Threshold's most valuable tips for students attempting to find housing below:

• Be vigilant of rent scams. If something looks too good to be true it probably is.

• Take your time when viewing a property and make sure it meets all your requirements such as commuting and local amenities.

• Check that the property is in a good structural condition and well maintained.

• Take photographs to record the condition of the property.

• Private rented accommodation is also covered by equality legislation so if you feel you have been discriminated against you can report it.

• A deposit should be no more than the equivalent of one month’s rent. You normally will not have to pay more than one month’s rent in advance.

• Where possible, avoid paying in cash and always insist on a receipt.

• You do not have to be given a fixed term agreement lease but must at least be given a rent book.

• If you are asked to sign a fixed term contract or lease, ensure you read it carefully and can fulfil all its terms and conditions.

• If sharing with others make sure you are clear of how the rent and bills are divided.

• Your rent should not be above market rent and, if you are moving into a property in a Rental Pressure Zone (RPZ), you should be given written information of how your rent is set in accordance with the RPZ rules.

• Get full contact details (including an address) for the landlord and their agent where applicable and you know who to contact if there is a problem during your tenancy.

• You will have to get your own contents insurance.

• Your landlord must register your tenancy within one month with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).

• Report any repair issues in writing to your landlord immediately

• If you or your landlord are looking to end the tenancy, seek advice.

• Further action can be taken by referring a dispute to the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).

For further assistance contact Threshold on freephone 1800 454 454 or visit threshold.ie to access help by email, webchat or online video consultation.