Dillon welcomes announcement of new student rental protections

Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon has welcomed the announcement of new student rental protections. Under the Residential Tenancies (No 2 ) Bill 2021 any upfront payment upon the commencement of a tenancy will be restricted to a total value that does not exceed two months’ rent ie a deposit and one month rent in advance. Deputy Dillon said: "This restriction will apply to all tenancies including for students residing in student specific accommodation. A student can make a larger upfront payment if they so wish, by way of an opt-out option, but they cannot be forced to do so." The Bill also provides that the notice period to be given by students in respect of student specific accommodation will be limited to a maximum 28 days’ notice.