Prospective renter viewing a furnished room and asking practical questions

By Siobhan Ryan

Seven questions to ask before renting a room in Ireland

Use this viewing checklist to understand costs, house rules, condition and practical arrangements before making a commitment.

Published 31 July 2026 - 3 min read

Use the viewing to remove uncertainty

Room photographs rarely answer every practical question. A viewing should confirm the real condition of the space, the full monthly cost and how the household works before any money changes hands.

Seven useful questions

What is included in the monthly amount and which bills are separate?
How is the deposit handled and what written record is provided?
Who currently lives in the property and how are shared spaces managed?
What heating, internet, storage and laundry facilities are available?
Are there household rules covering guests, pets, parking or working from home?
What existing damage should be recorded before moving in?
Who should be contacted when repairs or urgent issues arise?

Do not rely on urgency as proof that a room is genuine. Verify the person offering it, inspect the property and keep a written record of the agreed terms.

Verify the offer and record the answers

Ask who is legally offering the room and what type of agreement will apply. The rights and obligations associated with a tenancy, licence or owner-occupied arrangement can differ, so do not assume that a familiar label settles the position. Review current guidance from the Residential Tenancies Board or obtain independent advice when needed. A genuine viewing should match the address, room and shared facilities described in the advert.

Before paying a deposit

See the room and verify the identity and authority of the person offering it.
Receive the main terms, total charges and payment record in writing.
Check how notice, repairs, guests and shared bills will be handled.
Do not transfer money because of pressure from an unverifiable competing applicant.

At move-in, photograph existing damage with consent and keep a dated inventory where appropriate. Confirm who holds keys, how post is handled and what to do in an emergency. Never publish or send more identity information than a legitimate process requires. If bank details, names or the property change during the conversation, stop and re-verify them using an independent contact route. This checklist supports a careful viewing but is not a substitute for legal advice.