Neighbour disputes - Residential Tenancies Board

Neighbour disputes

A third party is someone other than a tenant, landlord or agent and is not directly connected to the tenancy. For example, a neighbour affected by a tenant's behaviour.

Landlord responsibilities and tenant anti-social behaviour

Landlords must make sure tenants follow tenancy agreement rules, especially if they affect neighbours (for example, anti social behaviour). If a landlord fails to ensure a tenant follows the rules, the neighbour or third party can take a case against the landlord through the RTB.

Landlords can be ordered to make large payments to neighbours for distress caused.

If the affected neighbour contacts the landlord about anti social behaviour, the landlord can send a letter to the tenant. This letter instructs the tenant not to behave in an anti social manner on the property or nearby.

Report complaints about serious anti social or criminal activity to the Gardaí.

Before taking a dispute to the RTB

The law says neighbours or third parties who have an issue with a tenant must first try to resolve the dispute with the landlord.

You must tell the landlord about the issues with their tenant and give them a chance to fix the issues before you take a dispute to the RTB.

If you do not have the contact details for the landlord, the RTB may be able to provide them, once the tenancy is registered.

You can request the landlord’s contact details by completing this form and sending it to the RTB.

Neighbour or third party dispute resolution services

If you cannot resolve the issue directly with the landlord, you can apply for mediation or adjudication.

The landlord must be told before the case is reviewed. The tenant is treated as a ‘Notice party’ and is told about the case. They will receive a copy of the information about the case and any evidence submitted. They can attend the hearing if they want to. They do not have a right to appeal the results of the case.

You need to explain the steps taken to resolve the dispute. Include any contact you have had with the tenant and or the landlord.

You should include any evidence like:

  • A record log of any events (dates and times when things happened)
  • Photographs
  • Witness statements
  • Garda reports (where applicable)
  • Evidence that the landlord was made aware of the tenant’s anti social behaviour.

Find a guide to evidence to help you prepare.