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As an international student at TU Dublin, you're about to embark on an exciting journey in one of Europe's most student-friendly cities. Dublin is not just about academic excellence; it's a city pulsating with arts, culture, and an endless array of opportunities to explore and make memories. For our international students, finding the right accommodation is key to settling into your new life in Dublin. We understand that moving to a new country comes with its challenges, and we're here to support you every step of the way. 

Here's what you need to know

Start Early: Accommodation options can fill up quickly, so it's wise to begin your search as soon as you've accepted your offer from TU Dublin. 

Register on StudentPad: To explore available options, take a look at StudentPad. If you are an incoming international student use '1234' as a student number, you must email studentaccommodation@tudublin.ie for access confirmation. 

Host Family/Digs: This can be a cost-effective and comforting choice, providing you with a supportive home environment and often, meals. 

Student Accommodation Hubs: These purpose-built facilities are ideal for immersing yourself in student life and making new friends. 

Private Rentals: For more independence, consider private apartments or shared housing. Remember, it's safest to secure these in person once you arrive. 

Dublin's reputation as a student-friendly city is well-earned, with its vibrant cultural scene, historical landmarks, and events that cater to diverse interests and backgrounds. As you settle into your chosen accommodation, we invite you to immerse yourself in the local community, experience the rich tapestry of Dublin life, and enjoy the warm welcome that awaits you at TU Dublin.

Smart Renting: Top Tips for TU Dublin Students 

Here’s a condensed guide for students renting during college from the RTB: 

  • View Before You Commit: It’s crucial to see where you’ll live before signing a lease. With the rush of students looking for housing, don’t rush into the first option. Take the time to find the right fit for you. 
  • Legitimate Landlords and Agents: Confirm that your landlord has registered with the RTB. If dealing with agents, they must be licensed; verify this on the psr.ie register
  • Basic Standards: Check that the rental meets the necessary standards. Local Authorities inspect properties to ensure compliance. 
  • Deposits: A landlord should only ask for one month's rent as a deposit. Get a receipt for any deposit you pay, and remember, paying in cash isn’t ideal. 
  • Understand Your Lease: If sharing, make sure everyone knows their rights and responsibilities as outlined in the lease. 
  • Rent Payments: By law, you shouldn’t pay more than one month's rent upfront, except in specific student accommodations where you may opt to pay more with the provider's agreement. 
  • Ending Your Tenancy: You can end your student accommodation tenancy with 28 days’ notice, with certain conditions. 
  • RTB Support: The RTB is there to help with any disputes and provides a Dispute Resolution Service for issues ranging from rent reviews to maintenance. 

For more details on these points, including how to safely end a tenancy or retrieve a deposit, visit the RTB website or reach out to them directly for assistance.  

The Garda website offers critical Rental Scam Awareness Advice to help you steer clear of fraudulent schemes. Ensure you're well-informed by visiting their Rental Scam Awareness section for essential tips and guidance.

Gain insight into your rights as a student tenant with Threshold's FAQ section, which provides clarity on the protections and entitlements you have while renting. Additionally, the Union of Students in Ireland offers a comprehensive FAQ to address common accommodation queries, and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission details the various scams to be aware of, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate the rental landscape safely.

Be Vigilant: Avoiding Rental Scams 

We advise against booking private rental accommodation before arriving in Ireland, as it's much safer to secure your housing in person to avoid scams. It's a good idea to organise temporary accommodation for the first two weeks in Dublin. This way, once you're in the city, you can personally attend property viewings and make an informed decision about your new home.

When searching for private rented accommodation, it's crucial to stay alert for rental scams, which are unfortunately all too common. Scammers may advertise real listings with their contact information, then make excuses for why they can't show you the property in person, such as claiming they are too busy or living elsewhere. They might send convincing photos, documents, or even keys, hoping you'll pay rent or a deposit upfront. The scam often comes to light only when tenants arrive at the property to discover it's already occupied. Always remember: if a rental deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Always insist on seeing a property in person and conducting transactions through verified means.  

Contact Us 

International students seeking assistance with housing options are encouraged to contact the Student Accommodation team for personalised support. Please direct your inquiries to studentaccommodation@tudublin.ie or connect with us by phone at +353 1 220 5600, and we'll be glad to help you secure your home away from home.