Submit Your Investigations and Sanctions Complaint

Understanding the RTB Investigations and Sanctions Complaint Form

The Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) in Ireland provides a dedicated Investigations and Sanctions Complaint Form for tenants, neighbours, or other interested parties to report suspected breaches of rental laws by landlords. This official form is an essential tool for maintaining fair housing practices and ensuring compliance with rental regulations. Whether you are a tenant, a local authority representative, or a concerned neighbour, understanding how to properly complete and submit this form can help you effectively raise your concerns.

Purpose of the Complaint Form

The primary function of this form is to enable individuals to formally report suspected violations of rental legislation. These breaches may include failure to comply with rent controls, improper rent increases, failure to register tenancies, or providing false information in notices related to tenancy termination. The RTB uses this information to initiate investigations, which can lead to sanctions or other enforcement actions if breaches are confirmed.

Who Should Fill Out This Form?

This form is intended for anyone who believes a landlord has committed a breach of rental law. This includes current tenants, former tenants, neighbours, elected representatives, or bodies such as local authorities. The complainant’s personal contact details are kept confidential from the landlord, although the landlord will be informed of the complaint’s existence and its general nature. It is important to provide as much detail as possible to assist the RTB in handling the case effectively.

How to Complete the Form

1. Provide Your Personal Details

Start by filling in your full name, address, Eircode, phone number, and email address. You must specify your relationship to the tenancy—whether you are a current or former tenant, neighbour, or other relevant party. Accurate contact details are vital for the RTB to communicate with you about your complaint.

2. Enter Landlord Information

Next, include the landlord’s name, address, Eircode, phone number, and email if known. If you do not have all these details, provide as much information as possible to assist the investigation.

3. Describe the Rental Property and Tenancy

Provide the property’s address and its Eircode. If known, include the names of the tenants and the approximate dates of the tenancy. This helps the RTB identify the specific rental agreement involved.

4. Specify the Nature of the Complaint

Tick all relevant boxes that describe the alleged breach. These may include failure to adhere to rent pressure zone (RPZ) rules, improper rent increases, failure to register the tenancy, or providing false reasons for ending a tenancy. For each issue, supply detailed information such as previous rent amounts, dates, and specific actions observed.

Additional Information and Attachments

If your complaint involves issues like false notices of termination or failure to offer a tenancy back after certain reasons for termination, you should include copies of relevant documents such as notices or correspondence. Providing detailed evidence supports your case and facilitates a thorough investigation.

Submitting the Complaint

The completed form can be submitted via the RTB’s online portal or by post. Ensure all sections are filled out accurately to avoid delays. Once received, the RTB will review your complaint and decide whether an investigation is warranted. If an investigation proceeds, a copy of your submission and any attachments will be shared with the landlord, but your personal contact details will remain confidential.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Failing to provide comprehensive details about the breach.
• Not attaching relevant documents that support your complaint.
• Submitting incomplete or unsigned forms.
• Not keeping copies of your submission and attachments.

By carefully completing the RTB Investigations and Sanctions Complaint Form, you contribute to ensuring fair rental practices across Ireland and help uphold tenants’ rights under Irish law.