Deposits, fees, and upfront costs

In addition to the physical cost of moving, households in Ireland face a range of deposits, fees, and upfront payments when changing accommodation. These costs are often required before moving in and can represent a substantial financial barrier, particularly for renters and first-time buyers.

This page outlines the most common upfront housing costs in Ireland and explains how they typically affect short-term budgets during a move.

Overview: Why Upfront Costs Matter

Upfront housing costs are often underestimated because they:

  • Are paid before occupancy begins
  • Do not recur monthly
  • Are spread across multiple providers
  • Require immediate access to savings

Although temporary, these costs can be significant and often exceed expectations when combined.

Rental Deposits and Advance Rent

Most renters are required to pay both a security deposit and rent in advance before moving in.

Typical Upfront Rental Costs
  • Security deposit: usually one month’s rent
  • First month’s rent: paid in advance

In higher-rent areas, particularly in Dublin, this commonly means requiring €2,000 – €4,000+ upfront, excluding any moving or setup costs.

Utility Setup and Connection Fees

New or changed accommodation may require utilities to be set up or reconnected.

Common Upfront Utility Costs
  • Electricity or gas connection fees
  • Broadband installation or activation charges
  • TV licence: €160 per year

These costs are typically incurred within the first month of occupancy and add to initial cash outlay.

Letting and Administrative Costs

While most traditional letting fees are restricted, some administrative charges may still apply depending on the property.

Possible Administrative Expenses
  • Inventory or condition reports
  • Replacement keys or access fobs
  • Initial service charges in managed developments

These costs vary by landlord and property type and are often paid shortly after moving in.

Home buyers face substantially higher upfront costs than renters.

Typical Buyer Fees
  • Solicitor fees: €2,000 – €3,000
  • Property survey and valuation fees
  • Stamp duty: 1% of the purchase price

These costs are payable regardless of whether mortgage approval ultimately proceeds.

In addition to purchase fees, buyers may incur further setup costs related to financing and insurance.

Common Mortgage-Related Costs
  • Mortgage arrangement or application fees
  • Life or mortgage protection insurance setup
  • Initial home insurance payments

These expenses add to the overall upfront cost of purchasing a property and are often due before drawdown.

How These Costs Affect Moving Budgets

Upfront costs are concentrated over a short period and require accessible savings.

In practice:

  • Renters: upfront costs often exceed two months’ rent
  • Buyers: upfront costs can exceed €30,000 – €50,000, depending on property price

Because these costs do not recur monthly, they are often excluded from housing affordability estimates despite their impact.

Summary

Deposits, fees, and upfront payments form a significant part of the cost of moving in Ireland. Renters face high initial costs due to deposits and advance rent, while buyers encounter substantial legal, professional, and mortgage-related fees.

Including these upfront expenses provides a more accurate picture of the financial impact of changing accommodation and explains why moving can place short-term pressure on household finances.

Last updated: January 2026
Figures are indicative and based on publicly available data and typical market practices. Actual costs vary by location, property type, and individual circumstances.