Threshold charity urges Cork renters to know their rights and avail of supports

National housing charity Threshold will run a campaign on International Tenants’ Day to encourage renters to inform themselves of their rights in the private rental market.

Threshold helped more than 800 Cork people, who were at risk of entering homelessness, to avoid this between April and June of this year.

In Cork, renters continue to struggle with issues regarding tenancy termination, access to social housing, and issues with standards and repairs, the charity said.

Now in its fourth year, the Own Your Rights campaign is aimed at raising renters’ awareness about their rights, and the support available to them. The charity has created a series of under-five-minute podcast episodes hosted by senior advisor Alex O’Connor, who answers some frequently asked questions renters have.

Awareness

According to Threshold’s recent Client Engagement Survey, 77% felt that their awareness of their rights had increased after they contacted Threshold.

Threshold’s national advocacy manager, Ann-Marie O’Reilly, said: “It is rewarding to see that over 75% of those who contacted Threshold felt that their awareness of their rights increased significantly. Highlighting the importance of renters getting in touch — for free — with our advisors.”

Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien welcomed the return of the Own Your Rights campaign.

“This campaign is very timely as it also highlights the increased rent tax credit, now at €1,000 — announced in Budget 2025 — and we want to ensure eligible tenants avail of relief.

“There are also further supports available for renters, including the housing assistance payment, which has been designed to support renters in a rental market that we know is challenging for many.”

Threshold’s helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9am-9pm at 1800 454 454, — as well as a webchat at threshold.ie/get-help — for renters seeking advice.