RTB Dispute Resolution & Adjudication.

If a dispute arises, the RTB process can be complex and time‑sensitive. Whether it’s rent arrears, notice validity, minimum standards, or a disagreement over repairs, landlords must follow strict procedures and provide strong evidence. This guide explains how the RTB dispute process works in 2026 — and how to protect your position.

How RTB Disputes Begin:

A dispute can be raised by either party for issues such as:
Validity of a notice
Rent arrears
Deposit retention
Minimum standards
Repairs and maintenance
Alleged breaches of obligations
The process begins when one party submits a dispute application to the RTB.

67 questions Every Landlord Should Ask.

Evidence Requirements for Landlords:

To protect your position, you must provide:
Tenancy agreement
Rent records and arrears statements
Proof of service
Inspection reports
Repair records and invoices
Communication logs
Photos, videos, or expert reports
Missing evidence is one of the most common reasons landlords lose RTB cases.

The Landlord's Bible 2026 Edition.

Timelines in the RTB Process:

Typical 2026 timelines:
Dispute application: immediate
Mediation: within 2–4 weeks
Adjudication: 8–12 weeks
Written decision: 3–4 weeks after hearing
Appeal to Tribunal: within 10 days
Delays often occur when documentation is missing or incomplete.

The Landlord's Bible 2026 Edition.

Mediation vs Adjudication:

The RTB offers two pathways:
1) MEDIATION:
Informal
Faster
Confidential
Aims for agreement
No binding decision unless both parties sign
2) ADJUDICATION:
Formal hearing
Evidence‑based
Legally binding decision
Can be appealed to a Tribunal
Most landlord cases end up in adjudication because they involve legal validity, documentation, or timelines.

The Landlord's Bible 2026 Edition.

Common Mistakes Landlords Make:

These errors frequently weaken a landlord’s case:
Serving an invalid notice
Incorrect notice periods
No proof of service
Poor documentation
Not responding to RTB deadlines
Incomplete rent records
Failing to show attempts to resolve the issue
The RTB expects landlords to demonstrate procedural compliance at every step.

67 questions Every Landlord Should Ask.

How to Protect Your Position:

To strengthen your case:
Keep detailed records from day one
Use correct RTB forms
Serve notices properly
Maintain communication logs
Document all repairs and inspections
Respond promptly to RTB deadlines
Seek professional support early
Preparation is the difference between winning and losing.

Managing Disputes & The RTB Process - The Correct Way:

WEB Lettings prepares fully compliant notices for Dublin landlords — including correct forms, timelines, statutory declarations, and proof‑of‑service procedures. Avoid invalid notices and protect your legal position. See also Serving Notices: Validity, Timelines & Common Errors, Rent Reviews, National Rent Control & Legal Notice Periods,  and Annual Registration, Late Fees & Penalties. The RTB will seek to determine if a tenant's case has any validity. Prepare accordingly - with WEB Lettings expertise and insights on how to protect your financial well-being.

Protect My Position. Click Here.
WEB Lettings supports Dublin landlords through the full RTB dispute process — preparing evidence, reviewing notices, organising documentation, and helping you present a strong, compliant case. Don’t go into an RTB dispute unprepared.

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