Before you pay a deposit

• See the home in person first.
• The deposit can't be more than one month's rent, and neither can rent paid in advance. Students in student-specific accommodation can pay more if they also pay tuition to the same provider.
• Only pay once you're happy with the home and the terms.
• Get a written agreement.
• Avoid cash if you can, and get a signed, dated receipt.
• Find out who holds the deposit, and get the landlord's contact details.

• Take photos of the condition of the home.

Only money they have a legal reason to keep:

• Rent you still owe.
• Unpaid bills you were responsible for.
• Damage beyond normal wear and tear.
• Costs from leaving without enough notice, or leaving a fixed term early.

• Give the notice you're required to give, in writing.
• Pay your rent up to the day you move out.
• Take final meter readings and arrange to pay the bills.
• Remove your belongings and rubbish, and leave the home clean.
• Check the inventory, take photos at the end, and ask for a final inspection.

• The RTB says as soon as possible after the tenancy ends. That may not be the day you move out, as the landlord may need time to inspect. It gives no number of days.
• Threshold advises it should be back within 14 days.
• Your landlord should show receipts or invoices for any damage they claim.
• If it isn't returned, ask in writing, and ask for evidence of any claim.

• Tenants and landlords can both go to the RTB. Mediation is free, and adjudication costs €30.
• Renting a room in someone's home is usually a licence. Threshold says licensees can't use the RTB. The small claims court is an option, and costs €25.
• A booking deposit on a home you never moved into may be kept for costs like re-letting. Threshold says the RTB can't deal with these.