RESOURCES

Housing Calculators, Guides, and Tools

Free tools and resources for local authorities, housing bodies, landlords, and tenants across Ireland and the UK.

4 Calculators
31 Local Authorities
Free to Use
FAQ

Common Questions

Differential rent is a means-tested rent system used by Irish local authorities for social housing. Your rent is calculated as a percentage of your assessable household income, with rates varying by council. Each of Ireland's 31 local authorities sets its own charge rates, income disregards, and minimum/maximum rent thresholds.
Your HAP payment is based on your local authority area, household size, and the HAP rent limits set by the Department of Housing. You pay a differential rent contribution to the local authority based on your income, and the council pays the landlord directly. If the actual rent exceeds the HAP limit, you pay any top-up.
HAP rent limits vary by local authority and household size. For example, a couple with 1 child in Dublin can receive up to EUR 1,550 per month, while the same household in a rural area may receive EUR 575-750. Local authorities can apply discretion of up to 35% above standard limits in some cases.
Use the Differential Rent Calculator above. Select your local authority, enter your household income and composition, and the calculator applies your council's specific rules to produce your weekly or monthly rent. Each council has different charge rates and income disregards.
HAP is a long-term housing support administered by local authorities, while Rent Supplement is a short-term payment from the Department of Social Protection. HAP tenants are considered to have their housing need met and are removed from the social housing waiting list. Rent Supplement is being phased out in favour of HAP.
GUIDES

Guides and Documentation

In-depth guides for housing professionals and property managers.

🇮🇪 UPDATED 2026

Cost Rental Ireland: The Complete Guide

Everything about cost rental housing. Income limits, eligibility, how rent is calculated, providers, how to apply, and where homes are available in 2026.

Income Limits Eligibility How to Apply FAQ
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🇮🇪 COMPARISON

Cost Rental vs HAP vs Social Housing

Side-by-side comparison of Ireland's three housing support schemes. Income limits, how rent is set, eligibility, and which scheme is right for you.

Cost Rental HAP Social Housing Decision Guide
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SOFTWARE

Social Housing Software Ireland

How Rentalize helps local authorities and AHBs automate differential rent, cost rental administration, HAPM reporting, and tenant management.

Differential Rent HAPM Tenant Portal Arrears
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🇮🇪 IRELAND

Housing Administration Guide

The definitive guide to Irish affordable housing. Covers Cost Rental eligibility, LAAPS financial means test, and Irish tax calculations.

Cost Rental LAAPS Tax Reference FAQs
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🇬🇧 UNITED KINGDOM

UK Landlord Software Guide

Complete guide to landlord software for the UK. Covers essential features, compliance requirements, and how to choose the right solution.

HMRC/MTD Compliance Features
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INSIGHTS

Articles and Industry News

Expert articles on property management, landlord software, and affordable housing.

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