A new nationwide service has been set up to assist landlords, developers and letting agents.

Landlord Support Services (LSS) is a Cork-based advice centre headed up by Joanne Kiely and Catherine O’Shea.

"Owning property is no longer the preserve of wealthy individuals and we are very aware of the stresses, both financial and personal, involved on both sides of the fence," said Ms Kiely.

"The introduction of the Private Residential Tenancies Act on the 1st September 2004 introduced many new legislative measures governing landlord and tenant relationships including the establishment of the Private Residential Tenancies Board. Landlord Support Services can interface with the PRTB on behalf of clients, preparing cases for PRTB adjudication hearings as well as representing clients at these hearings. This service, along with dealing with the day to day issues involved in letting agreements and arrangements, can be handled quickly and efficiently, putting systems in place which are workable and avoiding problems later on."

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Catherine O’Shea added: "Landlords have rights and obligations. We operate independently of any government body so registered and non-registered landlords can avail of the confidential services provided. Landlords’ rights can be protected, particularly when faced with difficult tenants or situations, through our helpdesk or by arranging a consultation. Our advocacy services provide a cost effective alternative to expensive legal proceedings. In our experience, effective mediation with tenants (on a landlord’s behalf), can avoid time consuming dispute resolution procedures."

(NS/BMcC)