Transform a Spare Room into a Place for Learning and Growth
TU Dublin is calling on homeowners and primary tenants to open their doors to students in need of accommodation. Whether you have a spare room or an entire property, hosting a student is a rewarding experience that provides both financial and personal benefits.
By offering student accommodation, you can:
- Earn a tax-free income under the Rent a Room Scheme.
- Make a difference by supporting students in accessing higher education.
- Enjoy cultural exchange and meet students from around the world.
- Enhance home security with the presence of responsible tenants.
The Rent-a-Room Scheme
The Rent-a-Room Scheme permits individuals to rent a room(s) in their home, retain their social welfare entitlements where applicable, and earn up to €14,000 in rental income free from tax liability. The scheme is open to both homeowners and primary tenants who may have a spare room in their rented property.
Rental rates under this scheme should ideally be set at an affordable level, considerably below the rates sought for private rentals or purpose-built student accommodation, in order to ensure accessibility for students.
Further details on tax implications are available via the Revenue website.
Voluntary Regulatory Framework & Sample Licence
To support participation in the Rent-a-Room Scheme, the Department of Further and Higher Education has published a Voluntary Regulatory Framework, including a recommended Sample Licence Agreement. This helps clarify key aspects such as:
- Property details and ID/enrolment verification (student)
- Duration of stay and notice periods
- Rent, deposits, and utility bills
- Accommodation condition and house rules
- Dispute resolution
Download the sample licence agreementsample licence agreement
Download the Rent-a-Room Voluntary Regulatory Framework Document
List Your Room in Just 8 Steps
Advertising your spare room to TU Dublin students is easy with our secure and supported platform, StudentPad. If you are registering and advertising for the first time, follow these 8 simple steps to get started.
You can also download the StudentPad Listing Steps for easy reference.
Who Can Host?
If you have a spare room in a house, apartment, or self-contained unit within commuting distance of a TU Dublin campus, you can become a host. No prior experience is needed, and support is available from the Student Accommodation team throughout the process.
Accommodation Flexibility
TU Dublin students have diverse accommodation needs, from 5 and 7-day stays to shorter-term options for those commuting . If you prefer a more flexible arrangement, you can list short-stay options on StudentPad, making it easier to match with students who need fewer than 5 nights per week.
Feedback from Current Hosts
Here is what some of our current hosts have to say
"I've always been very lucky and had great relationships with my students."
"As a homeowner with two spare rooms, I feel privileged and want to support people seeking accommodation in the current climate."
"There is a financial incentive, but I also love that it opens my teenage children to the experience of college life."
"You meet new and interesting people from all over the world. You also benefit from their company and feel secure within your home, especially at night."
How It Works
- Register Your Property – Sign up on TU Dublin’s StudentPad platform.
- List Your Room – Set your own terms (duration, amenities).
- Connect with Students – Receive inquiries from TU Dublin students.
- Agree on Details – Arrange viewings and finalise bookings.
- Host with Confidence – Enjoy the experience with ongoing support from the Student Accommodation team.
Get Started Today
List Your Room Now: Register on StudentPad
Questions? Contact Us: studentaccommodation@tudublin.ie +353 1 220 5600