A new booklet will guide students through the minefield of renting college accommodation, it was claimed today.
The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) said the handy publication gives comprehensive information on several topics including tenancy agreements, tenants' rights and other accommodation options.
The USI Rent Book 2006, launched today by Minister for Housing Noel Ahern, was produced by the USI along with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). Copies of the guide will now be distributed to students at colleges throughout Ireland.
USI president Colm Hamrogue said thousands of young people will benefit from the information prepared by USI and the PRTB that "steers students through the minefield of mysteries" surrounding rented accommodation.
"USI Rent Book 2006 includes sections dealing with tenancy agreements, tenants' rights, and how students can choose rented accommodation that matches their requirements."
Students also have the option of on-campus accommodation at universities and colleges which has increased over the past few years.
Meanwhile, accommodation website daft.ie has said overall rents have risen this year but are below the peak levels reached in the rental market in 2002.
An average monthly rent for an apartment in Dublin is some €1,150, in Cork and Galway it stands at €850 and in Limerick rents are around €700.