In short
There is no fixed statutory notice period for lodgers in Ireland. Because lodgers are usually licensees rather than tenants, Citizens Information says they are entitled to reasonable notice if the owner ends the arrangement. The best protection for both sides is a written arrangement that states the notice period in days.
Why is there no fixed notice period?
The notice periods in the Residential Tenancies Acts apply to tenancies. A lodger living in the owner’s home is generally outside that Act, so those periods don’t automatically apply.
Threshold has highlighted this gap and has called for a minimum notice period for licences. That is a proposal, not current law.
What counts as reasonable notice?
It depends on the circumstances, such as how long the lodger has lived there, how rent is paid and what was agreed. A notice period that matches the rent cycle, or longer for someone who has lived there a long time, is commonly seen as fair.
If there’s a dispute, a court would look at the whole arrangement.
How does notice work on Sa Bhaile?
Every Sa Bhaile arrangement includes a notice period in days, agreed and confirmed by both people before moving in. There is a minimum the app won’t go below, and a shorter notice period can apply during the settling-in trial.
Notice is given in writing in the app, with the date it takes effect, so there’s a clear record for both of you.
What if someone is pressured to leave?
Nobody should be threatened, locked out or have their belongings removed. If you feel pressured to leave unlawfully, report it in the app and our team will look at it first. In an emergency, call 112 or 999.
Common questions
- Can a host ask a lodger to leave straight away?
- Lodgers are entitled to reasonable notice. Emergencies involving safety are different: call 112 or 999 and tell us through the app.
- How much notice should a lodger give?
- Whatever you agreed in writing. If nothing was agreed, giving notice that matches the rent period is a fair starting point.
- Is this legal advice?
- No. It’s general information. For your own situation, contact Citizens Information, Threshold or a solicitor.
Official sources
We checked this guide against these sources. Rules change, so check them for the latest position.
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. For advice about your situation, contact Citizens Information, Threshold or a solicitor.
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