Homelessness Risk: Renters Seeking Help Surges 21% – Threshold Report 2025

Homelessness Risk Climbs: Charity Reports 21% Increase in First-Time Contacts

The number of households seeking help from housing charity Threshold due to risk of homelessness rose by over 21% in the final quarter of 2025, according to newly released figures. This surge in first-time contacts signals growing pressure on renters across the country, with landlords seeking to sell properties being a primary driver of insecurity. The data underscores a deepening housing crisis, even as new legislation aims to address affordability and tenant protections.

Tenancy Terminations Dominate Concerns

Throughout October, November, and December of last year, Threshold reported that tenancy termination was the most prevalent issue facing renters. A significant 54% of all new clients reaching out to the charity were grappling with either actual or feared loss of their homes due to termination notices. This highlights the precarious position many tenants find themselves in, vulnerable to market forces and landlord decisions. Threshold assisted 746 households in remaining in their homes or finding alternative accommodation during this period, though the charity emphasized that many of these cases are still ongoing.

New Rent Rules Spark Concern

Threshold has voiced serious concerns regarding the recently enacted Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2026. The charity argues that allowing market rent resets between tenancies could undermine security of tenure and exacerbate affordability issues. This concern stems from the potential for unchecked rent increases, particularly in areas with high demand and limited supply. The act’s implications are a key focus for housing advocates as they monitor its impact on renters.

Lack of Modeling Fuels Uncertainty

National Advocacy Manager Ann-Marie O’Reilly of Threshold expressed concern over the lack of comprehensive modeling to predict the trajectory of rent increases under the new legislation. “There is also no safety mechanism in place if rents do increase at an unsustainable rate, like a rent brake mechanism,” O’Reilly stated. “This measure may never be needed, but it would provide stability to renters and the wider market.” The absence of such a safeguard raises fears that renters could face dramatic and unaffordable rent hikes.

The Scale of Support: A Growing Need

By the end of 2025, Threshold had provided support to 8,548 households, encompassing 10,933 adults and 6,928 children. The charity’s reach extended beyond direct client support, with 7,256 calls answered and 390 outreach clinic consultations conducted nationwide. These figures demonstrate the substantial demand for housing assistance and the critical role Threshold plays in preventing homelessness. You can find more information about Threshold’s services on their official website: https://www.threshold.ie/.

Context: Rising Homelessness and Housing Pressure

The increase in contacts to Threshold aligns with broader trends of rising homelessness and housing insecurity. Recent reports indicate a growing number of individuals and families at risk of losing their homes, driven by factors such as rising rents, limited housing supply, and economic pressures. This situation is particularly acute in urban areas, where competition for affordable housing is fierce. According to RTE.ie, new charity contacts at risk of homelessness are up 21% nationally.

What Happens Next? Legislative Impact and Ongoing Support

The coming months will be crucial in assessing the impact of the Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2026. Housing advocates will be closely monitoring rent trends and the number of eviction notices issued to determine whether the legislation is achieving its intended goals. Threshold will continue to provide support to renters facing housing challenges, advocating for policies that promote security of tenure and affordability. The organization’s ongoing work is vital in mitigating the effects of the housing crisis and preventing homelessness. Initiatives like the public-private partnership in Maricopa County, Arizona, to increase housing voucher uptake – as reported by Maricopa County (.gov) – offer potential models for addressing housing insecurity through increased access to rental assistance.

Confirmed vs. Unclear: Key Takeaways

Confirmed: The number of first-time contacts to Threshold regarding risk of homelessness increased by 21% in the final quarter of 2025. Tenancy termination is the primary concern for renters seeking assistance. Threshold provided support to 746 households during this period. The Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2026 is now in effect.

Unclear: The long-term impact of the new rent rules remains to be seen. The trajectory of rent increases is currently unknown. The effectiveness of the legislation in preventing homelessness has not yet been assessed. Details were not provided regarding the specific locations experiencing the most significant increases in contacts to Threshold.

The situation in Los Angeles County, where officials are considering raising the threshold for evicting tenants late on rent following ICE raids, as reported by LAist, illustrates the broader challenges facing renters and the need for proactive measures to protect vulnerable populations.