New regulations have been signed to improve the quality and management of rental accommodation in Ireland.

The Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2017 were signed last month by Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, Simon Coveney.

The new strategy outlines actions to improve standards in rental accommodation, such as landlords of rented properties ensuring such properties meet certain minimum standards. Key themes include; structural condition, provision of sanitary facilities, food preparation, storage and laundry, availability of adequate heating, lighting and ventilation, safety of oil, electricity and gas installations, fire safety and refuse facilities.

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In addition, the inspection capacity of rental properties by councils will be increased by number and frequency. Procedures for a more efficient, standardised and transparent inspections and enforcement approach across all Local Authority areas will also be introduced and specific ring-fenced funding for inspections will be provided from 2018 onwards. By 2021, 25% of rental properties will be inspected every year.

Minister Coveney said: "The focus under the rental strategy on standards is a central element in the Government's overall housing response. The new regulations aim to ensure that properties tenants are renting are safe, efficient, durable and comfortable.

"Landlords will be made fully aware of their obligations through a consistent and uniform approach by all local authorities in the State, which will ensure a level playing field so that responsible landlords will not be dis-advantaged by lax enforcement of rogue landlords."

(LM/MH)