Threshold are calling for an immediate extension on the ban of evictions and rent increases

Threshold, an Irish housing charity, has today called for an extension on the ban currently in place on evictions and rent increases, which is due to expire on June 27, 2020.

The charity released a statement today saying they have seen a major increase in the number of people who have gone into rent arrears as the COVID-19 pandemic "continues to cause instability in the rental market."

Speaking about this, CEO of Threshold, John-Mark McCafferty said; "In the first few weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rent arrears reported ranged from as little as €50 to as high of €2,800, with some clients being up to three months in arrears.

"Many callers foresee their arrears position steadily worsening arising from concerns that the Pandemic Unemployment Payment may be reduced.

"Most of those calling us are younger single people living in house shares.

"69% of callers have lost their income as a result of COVID-19 public health measures.

"While the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) has been quick to process payments and to pay rents above the usual caps, many people do not know they can apply for rent supplement and so significant arrears have accumulated.

"Unless this is rectified Threshold expect the scale of rent arrears to worsen."

Threshold has reportedly dealt with 6,787 cases this year alone, which required 46,757 actions including 5,954 actions so far on COVID-19 related cases.

"The number of actions reflects the increasing complexity of cases presenting to Threshold," the statement says.

The Chairperson of Threshold Aideen Hayden has urged tenants facing difficulty to contact Threshold; "We provide a wide range of information and advice, both on our website and via our Freephone helpline.

"Don’t hesitate if you need advice, need our help in contacting your landlord to protect your tenancy or in engaging with DEASP."

If you need advice or support, you can contact Threshold’s free COVID-19 helpline on 1800 77 88 99, from 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday.