The Ultimate Landlord Checklist: Preparing a Dublin Home for Letting
Letting your property in Dublin isn’t just about posting an ad and waiting for viewings. A well-prepared rental can command higher rent, attract better tenants, and avoid costly disputes down the line.
This checklist walks you through every step — from legal compliance to presentation — to ensure your property is fully ready to hit the market and impress.
✅ 1. RTB & Legal Compliance
Before anything else, make sure you’re on the right side of the law:
- Register the tenancy with the RTB (see our full RTB guide)
- Check Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ) rules and rent caps
- Ensure BER certificate is up to date
- Verify property meets minimum rental standards, including:
- Hot and cold running water
- Heating and ventilation
- Cooking & food storage facilities
- Safe electrical & gas installations
Tip: A property that doesn’t meet standards can’t be legally rented — and tenants can report non-compliant homes to local authorities.
🛠 2. Safety Checks & Certificates
This is not optional — landlords have a duty of care:
- Smoke alarms in every hallway, landing, and living space
- Carbon monoxide alarms if the property has a fuel-burning appliance
- Gas boiler serviced annually (RGII cert recommended)
- Electrical system in safe working order (consider a periodic inspection)
- Fire blanket and fire extinguisher in the kitchen (recommended)
🧹 3. Deep Clean & Maintenance
Before photos or viewings, your property should be spotless:
- Professional deep clean (especially kitchens, bathrooms, windows)
- Carpets professionally cleaned if applicable
- Walls patched and painted where needed
- Check for damp, leaks, or mould
- Test all appliances and fix/replace if faulty
🪑 4. Furnishings & Fixtures (if let furnished)
Tenants expect everything to be clean, functional, and modern:
- Beds and mattresses in good condition
- Working light fixtures and bulbs throughout
- Curtains or blinds in all habitable rooms
- Adequate wardrobes and storage space
- Functional kitchen appliances (fridge, hob, oven, washer/dryer)
Note: You must provide a full inventory if the property is furnished.
🖼 5. Presentation for Photos & Viewings
First impressions matter. Well-presented homes rent faster and for more.
- Declutter surfaces – remove excess items and personal touches
- Dress the home – cushions, rugs, simple artwork
- Good lighting – open curtains, replace dim bulbs
- Tidy exterior – front door, garden, hallways
Pro tip: Professional photos pay for themselves — they can boost response rates by 40–60%.
📄 6. Documentation Ready for Tenants
You must provide:
- Copy of the lease agreement
- RTB registration confirmation
- BER certificate
- Inventory list (if furnished)
- Emergency contact details
- Details on refuse collection, utilities, and Wi-Fi setup
💼 7. Choose the Right Tenant (and Agent)
- Request references (previous landlord, employer)
- Run basic ID checks and verify PPS number
- Consider a credit check or income verification
- Use a professional letting agent for marketing, vetting, and paperwork
🎯 Bonus: Quick-Win Upgrades That Pay Off
Want to add value quickly?
- Paint front door & hallway for stronger first impression
- Upgrade shower fittings and bathroom mirror
- Add LED lighting in kitchen and bathroom
- Replace old blinds or curtains
- Add wall-mounted shelves or hooks for function
These small touches can justify €50–€150 extra in monthly rent.
📥 Ready to Let? We’ll Handle the Rest.
Letting your property should be smooth — not stressful. Our local team will:
- Fully manage compliance
- Handle cleaning, photos, and staging
- Advertise, vet tenants, and manage contracts
Let us take the pressure off — book a free property consultation today.
