FAQ FOR PROSPECTIVE RAS LANDLORDS

Q: What is the RAS Scheme?

A: The Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) is a national scheme operated by all local authorities for tenants in receipt of long term rent supplement (18 months plus) and who are deemed to have a long term housing need by the local authority.

Q: How does the RAS Scheme work?

A: The local authority enters into a contract with the landlord and the tenant, in accordance with the Residential Tenancies Act 2004. The landlord is paid the agreed monthly rent direct into the landlord’s bank account every month, and the tenant pays their contribution to the local authority every week. No money is exchanged between the tenant and landlord.

Q: Is the landlord responsible for maintenance and repairs?

A: Yes- the landlord is responsible for any maintenance and repairs required for the RAS accommodation and the tenant contacts the landlord directly if any repairs are required.

Q: What types of RAS Contracts are currently available?

A: We currently offer Availability Agreements, typically one to ten years and Tenancy Agreements, duration of the tenancy only

Q: What if there is an unforeseen event and I need to terminate the RAS contract?

A: While it is generally expected that the vast majority of landlords will adhere to the terms of the RAS contract agreement, a landlord can terminate a RAS contract during the contract period as per the circumstances and notice given that is outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act 2004.

Q: The tenant paid a deposit before the RAS contract commenced?

A: If a landlord holds a deposit from a tenant, the landlord is required to confirm in writing the amount of the deposit and that they will retain the deposit for the duration of the RAS contract.

Q: Is the landlord liable for the Property Tax or is the tenant liable?

As the legal owner of the property, the landlord is liable for the Property Tax charge. The landlord must produce evidence of same when a new contract is being signed or the existing contract is being renewed.

Q: What documentation is required as part of the RAS contract agreement?

A: In addition to the actual RAS contract completed with the landlord, the following documentation is required from the landlord as part of the contract agreement:

• Current Tax Clearance Certificate
• Landlords bank account details to facilitate payment
• Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate
• Confirmation that the tenancy is, or will be registered with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB)
• Copy of insurance cover for property
• List of contents
• Proof of ownership of property (copy of Folio/letter from solicitor)
• Proof of Septic Tank registration (where relevant)
• Proof of payment of property tax
• Proof that all heating systems are serviced and in good working order.
• MPRN for electricity and current meter reading
• GRN for gas (if applicable)