Housing Assistance Payment (HAP)

HAP is replacing Rent Supplement for those with a long term housing need. Short Term rent supplement will continue to be managed by the Department of Social Protection. Anyone who qualifies for HAP must find their own private rented accommodation. Information booklets for both tenants and landlords are available for download under Related Documents on this page.

Please note that existing housing applicants must have their files reviewed by the Allocations Section to ensure that they still qualify for social housing before they can be considered for the HAP scheme. A list of the documentation required in order for a file to be reviewed can be found under Related Documents on this page.

Please find below of a list of frequently asked questions relating to HAP:

FAQS

How does it work?

If you are eligible as an approved housing applicant, you must find your own private rented accommodation (within specific rent caps). The landlord will be paid directly and the tenant will pay a rent to the local authority based on the differential rent scheme. The rent will be based on your weekly household income and works in the same way as the differential rents charged for local authority houses.

Am I eligible to apply?

Persons applying for HAP must be a qualified housing applicant(s) before they can apply. For more information on applying for social housing please click here.

What are the rent caps for the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP)?

For details of the rent caps for the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) please contact 01 2054399.

How do I apply?

Contact the HAP section on 01 2054399 or email hap@dlrcoco.ie.