• Landlord and tenant and property law experts address conference.
• Over 220 Cork solicitors will attend a major legal conference in the Kingsley Hotel, Cork.
• Cork solicitor, Patrick Dorgan, is the newly elected President of the Law Society of Ireland.

On Friday 16 November, 220 Cork solicitors attended the Law Society’s Practice and Regulation Symposium 2018, an annual legal conference, at the Kingsley Hotel, Cork.

The conference is organised by the Southern Law Bar Association in partnership with the Law Society Finuas Skillnet. The sold-out event provides local solicitors with updates on essential areas of law and practice including conveyancing, residential tenancies and more.

Solicitor Joan Byrne of O’Flynn Exhams, Cork, is out going-President of the Southern Law Association and says the conference is an opportunity for Cork solicitors to gather and reflect on the year that has passed and the year ahead.

“As the year draws to a close, this conference is an opportunity for Cork solicitors to examine crucial changes in key areas of law over the last 12 months, such as residential tenancies, regulation and civil litigation.”

Landlords and tenants

Ms Byrne says with rising rental costs it is increasingly important for landlords and tenants to know their rights.

“Due to higher demand, the cost of rent across Cork and Ireland is on the rise. The average Cork rent is now €1,301 – that’s 29% higher than a decade ago. It is important those eager to secure accommodation, or to let out accommodation, take proper precautions to avoid difficulties down the line,” says Ms Byrne.

“For example, it is a legal requirement that landlords register tenancies with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). If a landlord fails to comply they may face fines of up to €4,000 or up to 6 months in prison.”

“However, exceptions may apply if you are renting a room in your landlord’s home.”

“The rules around residential tenancies are there to protect both parties. The PRTB maintains a public register of tenancies. All tenants should check their landlords are registered.”

“Tenants must also be aware of their obligations, which include prompt payments, avoiding causing damage, providing proper notice when ending the tenancy and more.”

“If you are having difficulties with your landlord or a tenant, talk to your solicitor for advice.  Cork solicitors are expert advisers on residential tenancies and will be able to provide advice for each situation.”

Local success

Cork solicitor, Patrick Dorgan of Ronan Daly Jermyn, is the newly elected President of the Law Society of Ireland and also attended the event.

“We were lucky to welcome new President of the Law Society Patrick Dorgan to this conference in his home town. We wish him the best over the next 12 months.” says Ms Byrne.

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