Consequences of not registering

Penalties for not registering a tenancy

Under rental law, we have significant powers to pursue unregistered landlords. If you fail to register a tenancy, we can impose a penalty in three different ways:

Option 1: Criminal prosecution

This can result in:

• A criminal conviction.
• A Class A fine of up to €5,000.
• Imprisonment for up to 12 months.
• Additional penalties of €1,000 for each day the tenancy remains unregistered.
• Payment of the RTB’s legal costs.

Option 2: Investigation and a civil sanction

This can result in:

• A sanction of up to €15,000 and €15,000 in costs for each unregistered tenancy.

Option 3: Fixed payment notice

This can result in a fine of €100. If you do not pay the fixed payment notice and register, you can also face prosecution. 

What to do if you receive a Registration Enforcement Notice

If you receive a Registration Enforcement Notice, take the following steps:

1. Review the notice: Find the reference number at the top of the notice or solicitor’s letter. This number is important for communication.
2. Register your tenancy: Submit an application to register the tenancy. Visit our How to register page for detailed instructions and a video guide on how to register your tenancy. You will have to pay late fees. These fees increase for each month that the registration is late.
3. Confirm your registration: Once you receive your registration number, contact the Registration Enforcement section to confirm your tenancy is registered and to stop further legal action. Confirm by email to enforcement@rtb.ie.