Tenants and landlords in Ireland have several options when a tenancy dispute cannot be resolved directly.
The Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) recommends trying to settle the issue between the parties first. If that does not work, the dispute can proceed through mediation or adjudication, with a tribunal available as an appeal stage in eligible cases.
Understanding how each option works can help tenants and landlords decide what to do when a disagreement arises.
Try to resolve the dispute directly
The RTB encourages tenants and landlords to begin with self-resolution where possible.
This means discussing the issue openly, explaining each side’s position and trying to agree on a practical solution.
Resolving a disagreement directly can be quicker and less stressful than entering a formal dispute process.
If the issue cannot be settled, either party can apply to the RTB for formal dispute resolution.
Free RTB mediation
Mediation is provided free of charge by the RTB.
A mediator helps the tenant and landlord discuss the dispute and work towards an agreement.
Where an agreement is reached through RTB mediation, it is legally binding.
Mediation can provide an opportunity to resolve a dispute without requiring an adjudicator to make a decision.
A new process for RTB dispute applications
The RTB changed its dispute application process in July 2025.
New applications are now submitted through the RTB’s Dispute Resolution Centre, rather than through separate initial application forms for mediation and adjudication.
An applicant submits one dispute application, after which the RTB contacts the parties about the available resolution options.
This means tenants and landlords do not necessarily have to decide at the application stage whether they want mediation or adjudication.
Adjudication provides an independent decision
If the dispute cannot be resolved through mediation, it can proceed to adjudication.
An independent adjudicator considers the evidence submitted by the parties and applies the relevant tenancy law before reaching a decision.
The current RTB fee for an adjudication application is €30.
The adjudicator’s decision is legally binding, although an appeal to a tribunal may be available in certain circumstances.
Tribunal provides an appeal route
A party who is unhappy with the outcome of mediation or adjudication may be able to appeal to an RTB tribunal, depending on the circumstances of the case.
A tribunal provides a further review of the dispute and can consider additional evidence.
The current fee is €30 for an appeal following mediation and €85 following adjudication.
The tribunal is the final stage of the RTB dispute resolution process, and its decision is binding.
Keep evidence from the beginning
Tenants and landlords should keep records relating to a dispute from the outset.
Depending on the circumstances, useful evidence can include:
- Emails and letters
- Text or messaging records
- Photographs or videos
- Rent payment records
- Notices issued during the tenancy
- Repair requests and responses
- Inspection records
- The tenancy agreement
- Receipts and invoices
- Other documents relevant to the dispute
Keeping a dated record of events can also help establish when a problem occurred, who was contacted and what steps were taken to resolve it.
Previous RTB decisions
The RTB publishes previous dispute outcomes and Determination Orders from adjudications and tribunals.
These records can provide useful context about how similar tenancy disputes have previously been considered.
However, each dispute is decided on its own facts, evidence and the law that applies.
How to apply for RTB mediation
Tenants and landlords can apply for the RTB’s free mediation service through the RTB Service Centre.
If applying online is not possible, the RTB provides an alternative application process by post or email.
Email: disputes@rtb.ie
Post: RTB, PO Box 13841, Freepost FKY7736, Killorglin, Co Kerry
The RTB can also be contacted with questions about the dispute process or to update contact details.
Phone: 0818 30 30 37 or 01 702 8100
Email: disputes@rtb.ie
M10News analysis
The RTB dispute system gives tenants and landlords several opportunities to resolve a disagreement before it reaches the final stage of the process.
For many disputes, direct communication is the simplest starting point. If that fails, free mediation can give both sides an opportunity to reach a legally binding agreement without an adjudicator deciding the case.
Where a formal decision is required, adjudication provides an independent process based on the evidence and the relevant tenancy law. A tribunal can then provide an appeal route in eligible cases.
For tenants and landlords, one of the most important practical steps is to keep a clear record from the beginning of a dispute. Messages, photographs, rent records, repair requests and notices can help establish what happened and how each party responded.
A disagreement over rent, repairs, a tenancy termination or another issue can become more difficult if there is little documentation. Keeping records and understanding the RTB process can therefore help both parties prepare if the dispute cannot be resolved informally.
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