Most tenancy disputes in Ireland are best opened with a letter — not a form. A clear, referenced letter to your landlord puts your position on record, often resolves the issue without a hearing, and shows the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) that you tried to settle it first. This guide explains what goes into an effective RTB dispute letter, and points you to the right one for your situation.
Which dispute do you have?
Key Points
- The letter is the step before an RTB referral — and often replaces it
- Cite the specific section of the Act, not just "this is unfair"
- State clearly what you want, and set a deadline
- Reserve your right to refer the dispute to the RTB under Section 76
- Keep a copy and proof of postage — it's your paper trail
What to Put in the Letter
1. The facts
Your name, the property address, the landlord's details, and a short, factual account of the dispute — dates and figures, not emotion.
2. The law
The specific provisions you rely on — for example Section 19(4) for an over-cap rent increase, Section 12 for a withheld deposit, or Sections 62 and 66 for a defective notice of termination. Precision is what makes a landlord take it seriously.
3. The ask and the deadline
Exactly what you want done — withdraw the increase, return the deposit, withdraw the notice — and by when.
4. The escalation
A clear statement that, failing resolution, you will refer the matter to the RTB under Section 76 of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004.
Generate your RTB dispute letter
Rent increase · Deposit · Eviction notice — pick your dispute, add the facts, get a referenced letter · Free preview · €19 to download
Generate My LetterFrequently Asked Questions
What is an RTB dispute letter?
A formal letter from a tenant to a landlord setting out a tenancy dispute and citing the law — usually the step before referring it to the RTB, and a documented record either way.
Do I have to send a letter before going to the RTB?
It's strongly advised. Raising it in writing first shows good faith and often settles the matter without a referral.
What should it include?
The property, the facts, the relevant sections of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, what you want, a deadline, and a Section 76 escalation statement.
How much does an RTB dispute cost?
Currently €15 online (€25 by post). Many disputes settle on the letter alone.