Rental Scams in Dublin
Everything you need to know about rental fraud in Dublin — local rent data, pricing red flags, and the scam patterns unique to this market.
Dublin Average Rent (2026)
| Unit Type | Avg Rent / Month |
|---|---|
| Studio | €1,600 |
| 1 Bedroom | €2,000 |
| 2 Bedroom | €2,600 |
| 3 Bedroom | €3,200 |
Source: FlagMyListing market data engine, updated February 2026.
Red-Flag Pricing
If you see a 1-bedroom in Dublin listed under €1,400, be cautious.
That is roughly 70% of the local average for a 1-bedroom apartment. Listings priced significantly below the market average are one of the strongest indicators of a rental scam. Scammers use below-market pricing to attract as many victims as possible before the listing is taken down.
Common Scam Patterns in Dublin
Daft.ie Fake Listings
Dublin's extreme housing crisis means Daft.ie listings attract hundreds of enquiries within hours. Scammers exploit this desperation by posting fake listings and demanding deposits before viewings, knowing renters will pay quickly to secure what appears to be a rare affordable unit.
Rent Pressure Zone Manipulation
Dublin is a designated Rent Pressure Zone where annual rent increases are capped. Scammers advertise at below-cap rates to attract victims, then either demand illegal top-ups in cash or disappear after collecting the deposit.
Tech Worker Relocation Fraud
Dublin's Silicon Docks (Google, Meta, Salesforce) bring a constant stream of tech workers relocating from abroad. Scammers target these high-earning workers with fake listings in Grand Canal Dock, Ringsend, and Sandymount, knowing they often need to secure housing before arriving.
RTB Registration Scam
All Irish tenancies must be registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB). Scammers collect deposits and first month's rent but never register the tenancy, leaving tenants without legal protections. Always verify RTB registration after paying.
How to Protect Yourself in Dublin
- ✓Always visit the property in person before paying anything. If you are relocating to Dublin, ask a friend or hire a local rental agent to view on your behalf.
- ✓Verify ownership through official records — through the Property Registration Authority (prai.ie).
- ✓Never wire money or pay with gift cards. Use traceable payment methods like checks or credit cards.
- ✓Compare prices against the rent averages above. If a listing is more than 30% below average, treat it as suspicious until verified.
- ✓Run the listing through our free checker to scan for 40+ scam patterns before you engage with the landlord. If you encounter fraud, Report to An Garda Siochana.
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