HOUSING EXPERIENCES OF RENTERS AND OWNERS IN IRELAND - REPORTS 3 & 4 National Study of Irish Housing Experiences, Attitudes and Aspirations in ...
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National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
REPORTS 3 & 4
HOUSING EXPERIENCES OF RENTERS
AND OWNERS IN IRELANDAcknowledgements In 2017, the Housing Agency appointed Amárach Research to conduct research for this project. Séin Healy and Robert Mooney were the principal investigators from Amárach. The Housing Agency would like to thank Amárach, and also acknowledge and thank all the focus group participants and survey participants who took part in this research. The Agency would also like to thank Sharon Casey for the invaluable proofreading and editing she provided, and FUDGE Creative for their design of the report. This research study has been led by Roslyn Molloy of the Housing Agency. Authors: Roslyn Molloy, Ursula McAnulty, Séin Healy Date: May 2019 For more information and publications see: www.housingagency.ie ISBN: 978-1-903848-60-9 Housing Agency, Research, 53 Mount Street Upper, Dublin 2, DO2 KT73, Ireland
Reports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 01
Contents
Key Findings – Survey / 02
Key Findings – Focus Groups / 05
1 Overview of the Study / 06
2 Research Methodology / 08
3 Renters in Ireland – Survey Results / 10
4 Homeowners in Ireland – Survey Results / 26
5 Focus Groups / 39
6 Future Publications / 47
7 Appendices / 48
– Appendix 1: Renters – Dwelling Characteristics / 48
– Appendix 2: Homeowners – Dwelling Characteristics / 50
– Appendix 3: Renters – Sample Profile / 52
– Appendix 4: Homeowners – Sample Profile / 56
– Appendix 5: Rental Sector Classification / 59
– Appendix 6: Additional Tables / 60
Housing Agency02 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
Key Findings – Survey
Housing satisfaction social rented sector (77%). However, homeowners said that the homes
further analysis shows that renters that they live in were too big for
There were marked differences experienced problems with a range their current needs, while 13% of
between the number of people of dwelling-related problems. A homeowners said that they had
who were ‘very satisfied’ renting and shortage of space was the most some difficulties with keeping their
‘very satisfied’ owning their home. common problem experienced, homes warm or paying for the cost
The biggest difference was between highlighted by 29% of renters. Other of upkeep. Homeowners outside
those renting in the social sector and problems that renters experience Dublin were much more likely
those who own their home outright. included; difficulties with keeping not to have downstairs bathroom
While there was little difference their home warm (23%), the cost facilities (13%), while almost 10% of
between those renting in the of upkeep of their home (22%), homeowners said that noise from
private or social sector, there was a and difficulties with carrying out neighbouring homes was a problem.
difference noted in satisfaction levels maintenance and general upkeep
of those owning their home outright of their homes.
and those paying a mortgage.
Homeowners Neighbourhood
Renters While the data shows that those satisfaction
Housing satisfaction amongst renters owning their homes were very
is high; with 85% saying that they are satisfied with the homes they were Similar to the results observed when
‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’, and with living in, some interesting results looking at housing satisfaction levels
those in the private rented sector were shown when the survey drilled between homeowners and renters,
having higher levels of satisfaction down further into issues with their more than twice as many owning
(90%) compared to those in the housing conditions. Over 10% of their own home outright were ‘very
Housing satisfaction Neighbourhood satisfaction
27%
social
31%
private
30%
social
32%
private
Renter – ‘Very Satisfied’ Renter – ‘Very Satisfied’
62% 48% with
61% 48%with
outright mortgage outright mortgage
Homeowner – ‘Very Satisfied’ Homeowner – ‘Very Satisfied’
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 03
satisfied’ with their neighbourhood The overall positive neighbourhood experiences
compared to those who are renting,
either in the social or private sector. of renters are reflected in their attitudes to their
neighbourhood, particularly in terms of a desire
Renters
Just over a third (36%) of renters to stay there long-term (77%) and recommending
perceive their area to be changing
for the better, and only 12% perceive
the neighbourhood to friends (87%)
their area to be changing for the
worse. Social and private renters
reported similar perceptions on
changes to their neighbourhood. although this figure drops to 43% home is 7.5 years. Social renters, on
However, significant differences for those living in Dublin. Nearly average, have lived in their current
between regions emerged; with 53% half (48%) of homeowners believe home for longer than private renters;
of renters in Dublin feeling positive their area to be changing for the 11.5 years for social renters compared
about how their area is changing better. There are some differences to 4.5 years for private renters.
compared to only 29% of renters evident in neighbourhood
living in the rest of the country. perceptions between regions, Nearly 75% of renters feel secure in
however. Homeowners in Dublin their home, with only 5% of renters
Social renters were more likely to were most likely to view their feeling ‘insecure’ about their tenure.
be living in the area they grew up in neighbourhood as changing for the
compared with private renters (40% better, with 58% of Dublin residents The primary reasons for renting
vs. 16%) and, similarly, social renters feeling positive about how their area currently are choice-based for some,
were more likely to have family was changing compared to 43% of and a lack of alternatives for others.
members living close by (60%) those living in the rest of the country. As expected, social renters are more
than private renters (35%). likely to be renting due to an inability
Nationally, the survey found that to get a mortgage (45%), whilst 32%
The overall positive neighbourhood 40% of homeowners currently live of private renters are actively trying
experiences of renters are in the area where they grew up and to become homeowners (22% are
reflected in their attitudes to their 64% have family members living currently saving for a deposit and
neighbourhood, particularly in terms close by. 10% are currently looking to buy).
of a desire to stay there long-term Choice is still an important element,
(77%) and recommending the particularly for private renters: 38%
neighbourhood to friends (87%). are not sure where they want to
Housing experiences live in the long-term and, for 20%,
Homeowners and journey the location is convenient to work
Homeowners outside Dublin were or college.
much more likely to say that they Renters
‘strongly agree’ with feeling safe Overall, the experiences of renters in Homeowners
in their neighbourhoods (73%) Ireland are positive; with 21% saying Homeowners were very positive
compared to those living in Dublin that they had ‘very good’ experiences about their experiences of owning
(54%). Nearly 60% of homeowners of renting, while almost half (47%) a home; with 45% saying that their
‘strongly agree’ that their areas felt that their experiences so far experiences so far were ‘very good’
are calm areas to live in, and 53% have been ‘good’. Dublin renters and 46% saying they were ‘good’.
‘strongly agree’ that they are able are most positive about their rental
to access public amenities and experiences; with 28% having ‘very This was despite many having
services easily. good’ experiences compared to 18% experienced financial difficulties
outside of Dublin. when buying their home; 23% of
The majority of homeowners homeowners said that they had
‘strongly agree’ (58%) that they want The average length of time that experienced ‘a lot’ of financial
to stay living in their neighbourhood, renters have lived in their current sacrifice when buying their home.
Housing Agency04 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
The survey found that homeowners Homeowners living in Dublin (60%) were
do not move often. Of those
homeowners surveyed, 70% of much more likely to experience ‘some’ or ‘a lot’
homeowners were living in the first
home they had purchased, with the
of difficulty repaying their mortgage compared
highest proportion (32%) having last to those living outside of Dublin (29%)
moved more than 25 years ago.
or mortgage. There was also a more likely to experience ‘some’ or
Affordability difference (12%) between those ‘a lot’ of difficulty repaying their
renting in the social and private mortgage compared to those living
Survey participants were asked rented sectors, with 66% of those outside of Dublin (29%), whereas
how easy they found it to pay their living in the social rented sector in the rental sector, it was those
rent or their mortgage repayments. experiencing ‘some difficulty’ living outside of Dublin (74%)
Differences, again, were noted paying their rent. who experienced ‘some’ or ‘a lot’ of
between renters and homeowners, difficulty paying their rent versus
especially the numbers experiencing It was also noted that homeowners those living in Dublin (41%).
‘some difficulty’ paying their rent living in Dublin (60%) were much
Affordability
A lot of difficulty
paying rent/ 6%
of social
5%
of private
2%
of owners with
mortgage renters renters mortgage
Some difficulty
paying rent/ 66%
of social
54%
of private
34%
of owners with
mortgage renters renters mortgage
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 05
Key Findings – Focus Groups
Finding a suitable home to rent required an element of good luck
and an interesting finding was that for current renters the private
rental sector can be divided into two rental markets; the ‘open
market’ and the ‘friend market’. The ‘open market’ was where homes
were advertised on sources such as DAFT.ie, and the ‘friend’ market
was where homes were sourced through friends or colleagues.
When choosing a home in the rental for those who wanted to own their There was a slight preference for
‘open’ market renters spoke about home, as it was so difficult to save purchasing second-hand homes,
the lack of choice, their surprise at the required deposit. despite difficulties with the bidding
the condition of the homes vis a vis process encountered by some.
the rents being charged. Becoming a homeowner required The reason for this preference was
being in a committed relationship, primarily due to location preferences,
None of the renters had experienced as otherwise homeownership was as one person said “But like for us,
evictions or large rental increases seen as being out of reach of a like the only reason it took two years
themselves, however the main single person. It also required to find a house was because we
drawback of renting, especially significant sacrifices saving for the were very set on an area where there
for the Dublin renters, was the deposit, which was seen as the wasn’t any new builds coming up.”
feeling of insecurity regarding their most difficult aspect of purchasing
tenancy. Renters spoke about strictly a home, with people taking on extra There were mixed views on the
managing their finances to make work or foregoing a holiday. Location, experience of being a homeowner
sure they paid their rent each month, as with renters, was one of the key depending on when the home
which was seen as a key priority. criteria when choosing what had been purchased. More
Rents acted as a significant barrier, home to buy. recent purchasers were still in a
‘honeymoon’ period, whereas
longer-term owners had had more
Becoming a homeowner required being negative experiences, impacted by
the recession and negative equity.
in a committed relationship, as otherwise However recent times had seen this
homeownership was seen as being out of reach improve but there was very much
an element of caution both with
of a single person. It also required significant homebuyers and renters considering
sacrifices saving for the deposit purchasing as they judged the
market and what may happen to
the economy in the future.
Housing Agency06 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
1 Overview of
the Study
1.1 Introduction For this Report (3 and 4), the focus
is on housing tenure; examining
•
Report 3 and Report 4 – Housing
Experiences of Renters and
This research study, launched in levels of satisfaction with homes Owners in Ireland
2018 by the Housing Agency, (residential satisfaction) and levels •
Report 5 – Future Housing
aims to better understand current of satisfaction with the neighbour- Aspirations
housing experiences and attitudes hoods that people live in. Tenure
in Ireland, and how different factors; is analysed in more detail in the
tenure, family size, age, housing rented sector; with an analysis
type, housing quality, social class and comparison of social and 1.2 Rationale and
and region, impact on satisfaction private rented housing, while in background for the study
levels. The research also looks at the homeownership sector there is
people’s future aspirations for their analysis and comparison of those The 2016 Action Plan for Housing
housing. This research will be used to who own their home with or and Homelessness – Rebuilding
provide data on trends in residential without a mortgage. Ireland stated that housing is a basic
and neighbourhood satisfaction human and social requirement,
over time and will be carried out at The Housing Agency are and went on to state that:
regular intervals. disseminating key research findings “Good housing anchors strong
from this research study, but are also communities, a performing
A series of reports are being published providing the datasets to researchers economy and an environment
based on the research study and this and academics interested in delving of quality.” 1
report is a combination of the further into the data. An overview of
planned Reports 3 and 4, looking, in the series of reports emanating from Through the International
detail, at residential satisfaction of this research is detailed below: Covenant on Economic Social
renters and homeowners. • Report 1 – Drivers of Residential and Cultural Rights (Article 11.1),
Satisfaction and Aspirations in the Irish State recognises the right
Report 1 contains a review of the Ireland of everyone to an adequate standard
literature and the results of exploratory • Report 2 – Irish Residential and of living for himself and his family,
focus groups to explore the main Neighbourhood Satisfaction including adequate food, clothing
themes emerging from the literature.
The focus of Report 2 is on national This research study, launched in 2018 by the
housing and neighbourhood
satisfaction; examining levels of Housing Agency, aims to better understand
satisfaction with homes (residential current housing experiences and attitudes in
satisfaction) and levels of satisfaction
with the neighbourhoods that people Ireland, and how different factors; tenure, family
live in. It also looks at dwelling
characteristics, neighbourhood
size, age, housing type, housing quality, social
characteristics, attitudes to different class and region, impact on satisfaction levels
tenure and housing affordability.
1 DHPLG “Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness – Rebuilding Ireland” pg. 8 (2016) (accessed: www.rebuildingireland.ie)
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 07
and housing, and to the continuous the current levels of residential 1.4 Report structure
improvement of living conditions. satisfaction in Ireland are. The
second question relates to what Irish Sections 1 and 2 of this report
The Housing Agency was set up in householders’ aspirations for their provide detail about the overall
May 2010 with a vision to enable future housing needs are. study’s rationale, research questions
everyone to live in good quality, This research aims to provide and the methodology used for each
affordable homes in sustainable descriptive data on housing in of the three phases of the research.
communities, and one of the ways Ireland, which will be used to inform Section 3 of this report provides the
of making a difference is through current housing policy and provide results from the sample of renters
the Agency’s objective to be a information to help develop policies from the quantitative, face-to-face
knowledge centre for housing into the future. survey carried out in 2018, and
policy and practice. Section 4 reports on homeowners’
The research objectives are to: experiences. Both sections focus on
The Housing Agency hopes that, by • Provide data on trends in the themes of housing satisfaction,
providing a comprehensive national residential satisfaction over time neighbourhood satisfaction,
housing study with the aim of • Provide data on residential affordability and the housing
understanding Irish people’s housing aspirations among Irish journey. Section 5 provides the
situations and aspirations, it will householders headline results from a series of focus
provide input to the development of • Provide information on housing groups held in September 2018,
sustainable communities and help costs, affordability, housing exploring key themes of affordability
inform policy. It is planned that data quality, barriers to different and experiences of those who had
collected for this research will be tenures, location, residential moved home recently. Section 6
made available to researchers via the features, etc. outlines the planned publications
Irish Social Science Data Archive in • Provide information which will based on this research study and the
University College Dublin. input to national and regional forthcoming survey in 2019.
housing policy
• Track expectations and aspirations,
by age groups over time, to
1.3 Research questions, understand shifts in population
aims and objectives needs
• Collect information to help
There are two broad research with assessing future housing
questions. The first addresses what requirements
Housing Agency08 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
2 Research
Methodology
This study has been designed as
a mixed methods (qualitative and
objective of these focus groups
was to explore themes emerging
of 1,200 people is statistically robust,
with a plus or minus margin of
quantitative) research study and from the literature review, around error of 2.83 at a 95% confidence
consists of: residential satisfaction and housing interval. The total sample achieved
• Exploratory focus groups to aspirations, which would guide was 1,173. A booster sample of 200
inform design of the questionnaire the quantitative survey design. The renters was also included. This was
for the national survey (Report 1) focus groups took place in Dublin. to enable the research to analyse the
• A nationally representative sample Each group lasted 90 minutes and renting segment in more detail. The
survey of 1,200 householders consisted of eight respondents. The total sample achieved across both
aged 18+ years (See Reports 2, groups focused on two cohorts; surveys was 1,369 after data cleaning
3, 4, 5), with a booster sample of renters and homeowners. and quality control. Appendices 3
200 householders living in the and 4 provide a breakdown of the
rented sector demographics of survey respondents
• Focus groups to explore key by tenure. The data presented
themes of affordability and 2.2 Phase 2 – Nationally in this report is not a nationally
experiences of moving home representative face-to-face representative sample of all renters or
emerging from the nationally survey homeowners, as the booster sample
representative survey is being included in the analysis
The second phase of the research and no demographic quotas were
was a nationally representative face- applied to homeowners outside of
to-face survey of 1,200 adults aged the quotas applied to the nationally
2.1 Phase 1 – Literature 18+ years. The survey achieved a representative sample. Within
review and exploratory nationally representative sample by the 1,369 sample, the following
focus groups placing quotas on gender, location breakdown of all homeowners and
and social class. CSO Census 2016 renters was achieved. There were
The initial phase of the research figures were used to ensure that the 36 respondents excluded from this
consisted of a literature review findings would be generalisable to analysis who are living rent free.
and exploratory focus groups. The the national population. A sample See Table 2.1 for a breakdown of
Table 2.1: Breakdown of sample participants
Renters2 Homeowners
Social rental sector Private rental sector Own home with a Own home outright
mortgage
244 325 302 462
Total = 569 Renters Total = 764 Homeowners
2 Appendix 5 contains a breakdown of the rented sector classification
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 09
homeowners and renters achieved and scripted the questionnaire Research. The objective was to
in the 1,369 sample. for Computer-Assisted Personal explore themes that emerged from
Interviewing (CAPI). the national quantitative survey.
The sampling frame used was the The themes chosen by the Housing
Geodirectory and the sampling Regional analyses have been carried Agency to explore in more detail
methodology used was a 2-stage out, comparing Dublin, which covers were affordability and experiences
probability sample design, including all of Dublin City and County, and of people who had recently moved
quotas: 1) the selection of 120 the rest of the country. home (within the last one to three
sample clusters from across the years). The focus groups took place
2,700 electoral districts and 2) the Analysis of sub-groups can result in in Dublin and in Cork in September
selection of houses within the instances of small sample sizes and, 2018. Each group lasted 90 minutes
clusters. Interviewers visited every in these cases, caution should be and there were seven to eight
fifth house, and the ‘next birthday used when interpreting the results. participants in each. The groups
rule’ was used to select the adult These instances of small numbers focused on two cohorts; renters
interviewed within the house. are noted within the report. and homeowners. The results of
these focus groups can be found
The questionnaire used to collect in Section 5. A breakdown of the
information for this section of group structure is detailed below
the study was created by the 2.3 Phase 3 – Focus groups in Table 2.2.
Housing Agency using, where
relevant, generic questions from The third phase of the research
other nationally representative was qualitative, with four focus
surveys. Amárach Research finalised groups conducted by Amárach
Table 2.2: Phase 3 focus group structure
Group Gender Location Age Profile
1 Mixed Dublin Mixed Renters – affordability issues
2 Mixed Dublin Mixed Homeowners – affordability issues
3 Mixed Cork Mixed Renters – recently moved
4 Mixed Cork Mixed Homeowners – recently moved
Housing Agency10 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
3 Renters in Ireland
– Survey Results
This section of the report presents the findings from the sample of
renters captured within the nationally representative face-to-face
survey, including the booster sample. It presents the findings of
renters living in the social sector and renters living in the private
sector. The key themes covered in the analysis include: satisfaction
with the home, satisfaction with the neighbourhood, tenure
perceptions, renting experiences and affordability.
3.1 Housing satisfaction suited to their needs (59%), that
Key insight they find it easy to live in their home
Housing satisfaction amongst (61%), and most people had chosen
renters in Ireland is high, at 85%, Housing satisfaction amongst to live in their home (61%). (See
with almost a third (30%) saying renters in Ireland is high (85% Appendix 6 Table 3.2).
they are ‘very satisfied’ in their homes satisfied); with those in the
and another 55% saying they are private rented sector having While all renters enjoy both high
‘satisfied’. Overall, housing satisfaction higher levels of satisfaction levels of enjoyment and comfort
levels are highest amongst those (90%) compared to those in within their homes, there are some
in the private rented sector (90%) the social rented sector (77%). differences, in terms of ‘strongly
compared to those renting in the agreeing’ with the satisfaction
social sector (77%). There was metrics, depending on whether
little variation between regions. The survey found most renters the person is renting in the social
See Figures 3.1, 3.2 and ‘strongly agreeing’ that they enjoy sector or private rental sector (PRS).
Appendix 6 Table 3.1. living in their home (62%), that it is Between 66-70% of those in the
Figure 3.1: Housing satisfaction (n=569) Figure 3.2: Housing satisfaction by tenure type (n=569)
1% 3% 100%
Very dissatisfied Dissatisfied 90%
80% Very satisfied
11%
Neutral 70%
Satisfied
30% 60%
Very 50% Neutral
satisfied
40%
Dissatisfied
30%
55% 20% Very dissatisfied
Satisfied
10%
Social Private
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 11
Key findings – renters
36% 77% of renters enjoy
living in their home
(70% of private renters strongly
see their neighbourhood agree vs. 51% of social renters)
as changing for the better (52%
in Dublin vs 29% outside Dublin)
30% of
31% of renters
‘very satisfied’ in their
renters ‘very satisfied’ neighbourhood
in their home (27% of
social renters are very satisfied
vs. 31% of private renters)
60% of renters
experience ‘some
27% live where
they spent most of their
21% of
renters
felt they had ‘very
good’ experiences
difficulty’ meeting childhood (40% of social of renting (18% of
their monthly rental renters vs. 16% of private social renters vs. 24%
costs, and a further renters) of private renters)
5% experience ‘a
lot of difficulty’
in meeting
monthly
rental costs
80% of social sector
renters believe it is
important to live close to
other family members,
29% of renters
experience
a shortage of space
compared to 60% who
actually do
Housing Agency12 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
PRS are at the highest point of the marked when considering renters’ The prevalence of some problems
satisfaction scales, whilst those enjoyment whilst living in their own differs between social and private
renting in the social sector have home, with 70% of private renters sector renters:
lower satisfaction levels, with 49- ‘strongly agreeing’ that they enjoy • Shortage of space (a problem for
52% reporting the highest level of living in their home compared to 36% of renters in the social sector
satisfaction. This difference is most 51% of social renters. See Figure 3.3. vs. 25% of renters in the private
sector)
The majority of renters do not have • Difficulties with carrying out
issues with a range of dwelling- maintenance/upkeep yourself (a
Key insight related problems. A shortage of problem for 28% of renters in the
space is the most common problem, social sector vs. 12% of renters in
Renters in the PRS are more experienced by 29%. Other problems the private sector)
likely to be living in a home that renters have issues with include • Difficulties with cost of upkeep
that suits their needs, that keeping their home warm (23%), (34% of renters in the social sector
they have chosen and that the cost of upkeep of their home vs. 13% of renters in the private
they enjoy living in compared (22%) and issues with carrying out sector)
to those in the social sector. maintenance (19%). See Appendix 6 • Difficulties keeping their home
Table 3.3. warm (29% of renters in the social
Figure 3.3: Housing satisfaction statements – private renters vs. social renters (n=569)
80% 80%
68% 66%
70% 70%
60% 52% 60%
49%
50% 50%
40% 40% 35%
29% 27%
30% 23% 30%
20% 20%
9% 8%
10% 5% 2% 5% 3% 4% 10% 3% 2% 5% 1% 4%
0% 0%
Strongly Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Strongly Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly
disagree agree disagree agree
I find it easy to live in this home My home is suited to my needs
80% 80%
69% 70%
70% 70%
60% 60% 51%
50%
50% 50%
40% 30% 40% 31%
30% 26% 30% 21%
20% 12% 20%
5% 9% 6%
10% 3% 4% 10% 3% 1% 5% 2%
0% 0%
0% 0%
Strongly Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Strongly Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly
disagree agree disagree agree
I have chosen to live in this home I enjoy living in this home
Social Private
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 13
sector vs. 18% of renters in the The majority of renters do not have issues with a
private sector)
range of dwelling-related problems. A shortage of
These findings suggest that, while space is the most common problem, experienced
the total rental stock is mostly seen
to be of good quality, at least in by 29%. Other problems that renters have issues
terms of its inhabitants’ perceptions, with include keeping their home warm (23%), the
some differences exist between the
perceived conditions of rental cost of upkeep of their home (22%) and issues
accommodation amongst renters in
the social and private rental sectors.
with carrying out maintenance (19%)
See Figure 3.4.
Figure 3.4: Incidence of dwelling problems – private renters vs. social renters
(% ‘somewhat a problem’ and ‘a big problem’) (n=569)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
Shortage of space 29%
Home too big for current needs 8%
Rot in windows, doors/floors 13%
Damp or leaks in walls or roof 17%
Noise from neighbouring homes 15%
Lack of a bath/shower 5%
Lack of downstairs toilet/
14%
bathroom facilities
Lack of a place to sit outside
9%
(garden/balcony/terrace)
Difficulties carrying out
19%
maintenance/upkeep yourself
Difficulties with the cost of upkeep 22%
Difficulties keeping home warm 23%
Home not feeling safe/secure 10%
Social Private Total
Housing Agency14 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
3.2 Neighbourhood The high levels of neighbourhood
satisfaction satisfaction are reflective of how Key insight
people see their neighbourhood
Neighbourhood satisfaction levels going forward. Just over a third Social renters were more
for renters are high, with 86% of (36%) of renters perceive their area likely to live in the area
those surveyed being either ‘very to be changing for the better, and they grew up in and to have
satisfied’ or ‘satisfied’. There are high only 12% perceive their area to family members living nearby,
overall levels of neighbourhood be changing for the worse. Both compared to private renters.
satisfaction for social and private social and private renters see their
sector renters. However, satisfaction neighbourhood changing for the
levels for those in the social sector better at similar proportions. The was more common amongst social
are 10% lower compared to those in most significant differences are renters; 40% of social renters live in
the PRS (80% vs. 90%). Across regions, between regions; with 52% of Dublin the area they grew up in compared
satisfaction levels are higher in residents feeling positive about how with only 16% of private renters.
Dublin compared to the rest of the their area is changing compared to Similarly, social renters were more
country, though the difference is 29% of those living in the rest of the likely to have family members living
minimal. See Figures 3.5, 3.6 and country. See Figures 3.7 and 3.8. close by (60%) compared to private
Appendix 6 Table 3.4. renters (35%). Dublin residents
Nationally, the survey found that are most likely to have left their
27% of renters currently live in the childhood area; only 17% are living
area where they grew up and 47% in that area currently compared to
Key insight have family members living close 31% for the rest of the country.
by. Living in the area they grew up See Figure 3.9.
Renters have a high level of
neighbourhood satisfaction
overall (86%, with 31% being
‘very satisfied’) and a high
Living in the area they grew up was more
proportion feel positive about common amongst social renters; 40% of
their neighbourhood going
forwards too, with 36% seeing
social renters live in the area they grew up in
it as ‘changing for the better’. compared with only 16% of private renters
Figure 3.5: Overall neighbourhood satisfaction Figure 3.6: Overall neighbourhood satisfaction,
(n=569) by tenure type (n=569)
1% 4% 100%
Very dissatisfied Dissatisfied 90%
80% Very satisfied
10%
70%
Neutral Satisfied
31% 60%
Very 50% Neutral
satisfied 40%
Dissatisfied
30%
55% 20% Very dissatisfied
Satisfied
10%
Social Private
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 15
Positive neighbourhood experiences not a current consideration for many, housing aspirations are not being
are reflected in people’s attitudes to the latter is a key driver of location realised, especially in terms of
their neighbourhood, especially in and future housing choice. location and family proximity (see
terms of a desire to stay there long- Appendix 6 Table 3.6).
term (77% agree) and recommending For many renters, there is a disparity • 80% of social sector renters believe
the neighbourhood to friends (87% in their experiences and attitudes it is important to live close to
agree) – See Appendix 6 Table 3.5. when it comes to family being a other family members, compared
Additionally, the positive experiences factor in housing choice, especially to 60% who actually do
of proximity of services and amenities, for those in the private rented sector. • 64% of private sector renters believe
especially ‘good quality schools’, is Higher proportions agree with the it is important to live close to
reflected in the results, with 83% attitudinal statements than the other family members, compared
believing their neighbourhood to be incidence rates, as detailed below. to 35% who actually do
a ‘good place to raise children’. While This suggests that, for some, certain
Figure 3.7: Perceptions of neighbourhood changing Figure 3.8: Perceptions of neighbourhood changing,
(n=569) by tenure type and region (n=569)
36% 12% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Changing for Changing
the better for the worse
Social 16% 50% 34%
Private 10% 54% 37%
Dublin 7% 41% 52%
Outside
15% 57% 29%
Dublin
52%
Not changing Changing for Not Changing for
the worse changing the better
Figure 3.9: Incidence of living where grew up and having family close by,
by tenure type and region (% Yes) (n=569)
80% 80%
70% 70%
60%
60% 60% 52%
50% 50% 47%
40%
40% 40% 35% 36%
31%
30% 27% 30%
20% 16% 17% 20%
10% 10%
0% 0%
Total Social Private Dublin Outside Total Social Private Dublin Outside
Dublin Dublin
Living where you spent most of your childhood Have family members living close by
Housing Agency16 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
3.3 Rental experiences Overall, the experiences of renters experiences of renting; slightly lower
in Ireland are positive. One in five than the proportion of renters in
(21%) of renters felt that they had the private sector (70%). See Figures
Key insight ‘very good’ experiences of renting, 3.10 and 3.11.
while almost half (47%) felt their
Overall, renting experiences experiences so far have been The survey found that the average
are positive, with 21% having ‘good’. Only 4% of renters felt that length of time that renters have
‘very good’ experiences and their experiences were negative. lived in their current property is 7.5
47% having ‘good’ experiences Dublin residents are most positive years, rising to 8.6 years for renting in
of renting. about their rental experiences; total. However, there are significant
The main reasons given for 28% believing it to be ‘very good’, differences between those renting
living in rented accommodation compared to 18% of those renting in the social and private sectors,
were choice and failure to get outside Dublin. Two-thirds (66%) with social renters having lived in
a mortgage. of renters in the social sector their current home for 11.5 years on
report either ‘good’ or ‘very good’ average, falling to 4.5 years for those
Figure 3.10: Experiences of renting (n=569) Figure 3.11: Experiences of renting, by tenure type
and region (n=569)
1% 3%
Very poor 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Poor
21% Social 30% 48% 18%
Very good 28%
Average
Private 26% 46% 24%
Dublin 21% 47% 28%
47%
Good Outside
31% 47% 18%
Dublin
Very poor Poor Average
Good Very good
Table 3.1: Average length of time in current home and length of time renting,
in total, by tenure type and region (n=5563)
Outside
Average (years) Total Social Private Dublin Dublin
Renting current home (years) 7.5 11.5 4.5 7.3 7.5
Renting in total (years) 8.6 16.0 8.0 8.5 8.6
3 2% of those surveyed have lived in their current property ‘all their lives’ – these are excluded from the average tenure length
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 17
The primary reasons for renting currently are not being able to access a mortgage
– at 45%, compared to 24% of
choice-based for some and a lack of alternatives private renters. One third of private
for others. One third (33%) state that they are renters are actively trying to become
homeowners (22% are currently
currently renting as they cannot get a mortgage, saving for a deposit and 10% are
suggesting ownership aspirations are being currently looking to buy). Figure
3.14 also suggests that the tenure of
limited for some due to access to finance private renters and those in Dublin
is more so driven by choice, where
people are more likely to be renting
due to uncertainty about where to
in the private rented sector. The primary reasons for renting live long-term (38% not sure where
See Table 3.1. currently are choice-based for some to live in the long-term and a further
and a lack of alternatives for others. 20% stating convenience of the
The length of time renting may One third (33%) state that they are location).
be a driving factor in Irish renters currently renting as they cannot get
experiencing a high level of tenure a mortgage, suggesting ownership Additionally, these groups are also
security. Nearly 75% of renters feel aspirations are being limited for more likely to be currently saving
secure in their tenure – 30% feeling some due to access to finance. for a deposit, with just over one-fifth
‘very secure’. Only 5% of renters, Further, 28% are currently renting (22%) of private renters saving for
nationally, have feelings of insecurity through choice, as they are unsure a deposit, compared to only 6% of
around their tenure. In terms of where they want to live long-term. social renters. Expectedly, income
overall feelings of security (very Convenience and generally being matters are the primary barrier to
secure and secure), there are minimal happy renting were also key drivers getting a mortgage – the majority
differences across tenure type or of tenure choice. (70%) believe their income is too
region; however, social sector renters low to get mortgage approval.
are most likely to feel ‘very secure’, at Social renters are significantly more See Figures 3.15.
36%. See Figures 3.12 and 3.13. likely to claim to be renting due to
Figure 3.12: Tenure security: How secure do you Figure 3.13: Tenure security, by tenure type and
believe your tenure security to be? (n=569) region (n=569)
3% 2%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Very insecure Insecure
Social 23% 36% 36%
30%
Very 22%
secure Average Private 21% 48% 26%
Dublin 18% 49% 28%
43% Outside
23% 40% 31%
Secure Dublin
Very insecure Insecure
Average Secure Very secure
Housing Agency18 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
Figure 3.14: Reason why currently renting (n=5344)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%
Can’t get a mortgage
Not sure where I want to settle
down or live long-term
It’s convenient to things I need to
be close to (e.g. work, college)
Just don’t want to buy a
home (I am happy renting)
Currently saving for a deposit
I am waiting to be offered social
housing (local authority or
voluntary body)
Currently looking to buy, haven’t
found suitable home to buy yet
Only in the area for a limited
time (short-term lease)
I always lived in the family home
Other
Social Private Dublin Outside Dublin
4 ‘Refused’ responses excluded
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 19
Figure 3.15: Reason/s why cannot get a mortgage (n=1675)
80%
70%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20% 16% 16%
9% 9%
10% 6% 5%
1%
0%
Income Irregular Outgoings Other Too old Self- Temp or Other
too low income too high debts or too employed short-term
young employment
contract
3.4. Renters housing proportion of renters are longer- Differences emerged between social
journey term renters: 17% last moved in the and private renters. Private renters
previous six to ten years, and 21% are a more transient group and are
Overall, nearly seven out of ten last moved in the previous 11 years much more likely to have moved
renters (69%) have moved in the or more. See Figure 3.16. recently: Almost one quarter (23%)
last five years. However, a significant of private renters have moved within
Figure 3.16: When last moved (n=569)
30%
25%
25%
20% 18%
16% 17%
15%
10% 8%
5% 6%
5% 3%
2%
0%
Within Within Within Within Within Within Within More Lived
the the last the last the last the last the last the last than 25 here all
last 12 1-2 years 3-5 years 6-10 11-15 16-20 21-25 years ago my life
months years years years years
5 ‘Refused’ responses excluded
Housing Agency20 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
the last 12 months and a further previous one to two years. For almost
Key insight quarter (24%) have moved within two thirds (61%) of social renters,
the last one to two years. The highest their last move was six years ago
Almost half (47%) of private proportion (28%) of private renters or more. See Figure 3.17.
renters have moved in the last have moved within the last three to
two years, compared to five years. In contrast, only 6% of When looking at renters last move
15% of social renters. social renters have moved within (for those that have moved within
the last 12 months and 9% in the the past ten years), the nature
Figure 3.17: When last moved, by tenure type (n=569)
50%
28%
40%
16%
30% 24%
23%
20% 3%
Within
20% 3%
19% the last
15% 1%
10% 6-10
years 11% 1%
9% 9%
6% 6% 5%
0%
Within Within Within Within Within Within Within More Lived
the the last the last the last the last the last the last than 25 here all
last 12 1-2 years 3-5 years 6-10 11-15 16-20 21-25 years ago my life
months years years years years
Social Private
Figure 3.18: Which of the following best describes your last move? (n=4226)
2%
Moved back to live 3%
with my parents Moved from abroad
8%
Other
67% 18%
I moved to another
I moved to my first
rental property
rental property
6 ‘Refused’ responses excluded
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 21
A higher proportion of those living in Dublin Renters who had moved in the
previous ten years were asked
found it ‘very difficult’ to find a home (21%) how ‘easy’ or ‘difficult’ it was to find
a home. Four out of ten (42%) of
compared to those outside of Dublin (11%) renters found it either ‘very difficult’
or ‘difficult’ to find a home. Overall,
renters in the social and private
of most (67%) was to move to Those that had moved in the last sector report similar experiences
another rented property and, for ten years were asked to state their of finding a home, although more
18%, it was to their first rental main reason for moving. The most private renters (16%) than social
property. A myriad of other reasons common reason given for moving renters (8%) reported that they found
were given for the nature of their was due to employment (26%), it ‘very difficult’ to find a home. A
last move, including: moved from followed by moving to a larger higher proportion of those living in
abroad, moved back to live with property (16%). For 11%, they moved Dublin found it ‘very difficult’ to find
parents and moved to the social from their last home because they a home (21%) compared to those
sector. See Figure 3.18. had to leave their rented property. outside of Dublin (11%). See Figures
See Figure 3.19. 3.20 and 3.21.
Figure 3.19: Main reason for moving (n=431)
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Employment 26%
More space for growing family 16%
Had to move from rented home 11%
Was given social housing 8%
Personal reasons (relationship
8%
ended, etc.)
Wanted to move to a different 6%
neighbourhood
Education 5%
No longer able to afford
5%
accommodation
Moved in with partner 5%
To move closer to family 3%
Right size/downsize as children 1%
grow up and leave home
I wanted to buy a home 1%
Saving for a deposit 1%
Other 3%
Housing Agency22 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
Figure 3.20: Ease of finding a home (n=569) Figure 3.21: Ease of finding a home, by tenure type
and region (n=569)
10% 14%
Very easy 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Very difficult
Social 8% 27% 26% 31% 7%
Private 16% 28% 15% 30% 11%
30% 28%
Easy Difficult
Dublin 21% 26% 14% 25% 15%
Outside
11% 29% 20% 32% 7%
Dublin
18%
Neutral
Very difficult Difficult
Neutral Easy Very easy
3.5 Rental affordability significant cohort of renters (36% difficulty’. See Figures 3.22 and 3.23.
of those surveyed) who experience
The majority (60%) of renters captured ‘no difficulty’ each month. The majority of renters have not
in the survey reported having ‘some experienced a rent increase within
difficulty’ in meeting their monthly In terms of tenure, a higher proportion the last 12 months8, with 55%
rental costs, and a further 5% said of those living in the social sector stating that their rent had remained
that they experienced ‘a lot of (72%) reported difficulty in meeting the same. However, there is still a
difficulty’ in trying to pay their rent their monthly rent compared to significant proportion (38%) who
each month, while there is also a those in the private sector (59%). have experienced rent increases in
Interestingly, it is those living outside the last 12 months; 20% reporting
Dublin that are seen to be having the the increase as more than 4%.
Key insight most difficulty meeting their rental Dublin renters are most likely to have
costs7 – 68% having ‘some difficulty’ experienced rent increases higher
There are a large proportion in paying their monthly rent, and a than 4%, with 26% reporting such.
(60%) of renters who further 6% experiencing ‘a lot of See Figures 3.24 and 3.25.
experience ‘some difficulty’
meeting their montly rental
costs, while 26% of Dublin The majority of renters have not experienced a
renters have experienced a rent
increase of more than 4%
rent increase within the last 12 months, with 55%
within the last 12 months. stating that their rent had remained the same
7 Further analysis is necessary to determine what is underpinning this
8 Survey fieldwork took place between June and July 2018, thus previous 12 months refers to the previous 12 months from these dates
and not the present date
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 23
Figure 3.22: Level of difficulty in meeting monthly Figure 3.23: Level of difficulty in meeting monthly
rental costs (n=569) rental costs, by tenure type and region (n=569)
5% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
A lot of difficulty
28%
60% Social 66%
Some 6%
difficulty
41%
Private 54%
36% 5%
No 56%
difficulty Dublin 36%
5%
27%
Outside 68%
Dublin
6%
No difficulty Some difficulty
A lot of difficulty
Figure 3.24: Rent changes in last 12 months (n=4399) Figure 3.25: Rent changes in last 12 months, by tenure
type and region (n=4399)
6%
Don’t know 1% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
Decreased
18% 7%
3%
Increased 53%
Social
by less
13%
than 4%
24%
55% 5%
20% Remained 57%
Private
Increased the same 26%
by more 12%
than 4%
8%
57%
Dublin
26%
9%
6%
2%
Outside
54%
Dublin
18%
21%
Don’t know Increased by
more than 4%
Decreased
9 Base numbers: social 216, private 223, Dublin 124, Increased by
outside Dublin 315 less than 4%
Remained
the same
Housing Agency24 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
In the private sector, one quarter of This is an area which we will explore renters are experiencing difficulties
renters have experienced a rental in more depth in a forthcoming living on their present income
increase of more than 4%. Of the survey. (difficult and very difficult), with a
renters who had experienced a rent large cohort in the middle (43%)
increase, 58% were given a reason 3.5.1 Paying bills and saying they are ‘getting by’ on
by their landlord, while 37% were household income present incomes.
not. A ‘standard increase’ was the Over one-third (37%) of renters felt
most likely reason given, at 68%, they were ‘living comfortably on The survey found differences evident
with a further 24% being told by the present income’. However, 20% of in renter’s views about their income
landlord that the property was worth depending on tenure type and
more now than previous years. See region. Those renting in the social
Figure 3.26. Key insight sector are more likely to experience
difficulties (28%) compared to renters
Of the renters surveyed, 71% did not Overall, one-fifth of renters in the private rented sector (14%),
receive any form of social support are having difficulties living and just over half (51%) are ‘getting
or assistance (Housing Assistance on their current income, and by’ on their present income.
Payment (HAP), Rent Supplement a further 43% are ‘just
(RS) or Rental Assistance Payment getting by’. One quarter of Further to this, 24% of those living
(RAS)) towards their rental costs. those outside Dublin are outside Dublin10 are experiencing
7% received Rent Supplement, having difficulties compared to difficulties compared to only 11%
5% received HAP and 2% received only 11% in Dublin. Social of Dublin renters. See Figures 3.27
support through RAS. However, renters are more likely to be and 3.28.
there was a large cohort of 17% who having difficultly than private
answered that they were unsure if renters (28% vs. 14%).
they were renting under any of these.
Figure 3.26: Reasons for rental increase (n=95)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%
Standard increase 68%
Landlord said the home
was worth more now 24%
than when I moved in
Renovation works were
12%
carried out on the home
Management
2%
fees increased
Other 8%
10 This is an important finding and one which the Housing Agency would hope to explore in further
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 25
Figure 3.27: Household views on present income Figure 3.28: Household views on present income,
(n=56111) by tenure type and region (n=561)
5% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Finding it very difficult 37%
on present income Living comfortably Social 21% 51% 22% 6%
on present income
15%
Finding Private 48% 37% 10%
it difficult
on present
income
Dublin 59% 30% 9%
Outside
27% 49% 18% 6%
Dublin
43% Living comfortably Getting by on
Getting by on on present income present income
present income Finding it difficult Finding it very
on present income difficult on
present income
11 ‘Refused’ responses excluded
Housing Agency26 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
4 Homeowners in Ireland
– Survey Results
This section of the report presents the findings from the sample of
homeowners captured within the nationally representative face-
to-face survey. The key themes covered in the analysis include;
satisfaction with the home, satisfaction with the neighbourhood,
tenure perceptions, ownership experiences and affordability.
4.1 Housing satisfaction suited to their needs, if they have
Key insight chosen to live there, and if they enjoy
This section of the report looks at living where they are. It looks at
levels of housing satisfaction amongst Housing satisfaction amongst affordability and gathers information
homeowners in the sample and, where homeowners in Ireland is very on any housing issues residents
possible, analyses responses between high; with almost three in five perceive they have with their home;
those who own their home with a (57%) saying they are ‘very such as damp, difficulties in keeping
mortgage and those who own their satisfied’ in their homes and the home warm and shortage of space.
own home outright. It examines overall another 38% saying they are
satisfaction levels with people’s own ‘satisfied’. Homeowners ranked how satisfied
homes; whether people’s homes are they were on a scale of one to five
Figure 4.1: Housing satisfaction (n=764) Figure 4.2: Housing satisfaction by tenure type
and region (n=764)
1%
Dissatisfied 100%
1%
Very dissatisfied 3% 90%
Neutral 80%
70%
60%
57% 50%
Very
satisfied 40%
30%
38% 20%
Satisfied 10%
With Outright Dublin Outside
mortgage owner Dublin
Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral
Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied
Housing AgencyReports 3 & 4 – Housing Experiences
of Renters and Owners in Ireland / 27
Key findings – homeowners
15%
of home-
56% of homeowners in
the survey are very
satisfied in their neighbourhood
owners (61% of outright homeowners
are very satisfied vs. 48%
experienced a of mortgage homeowners;
shortage of space 50% in Dublin vs. 58%
outside Dublin)
49%
of those who 57% of the sample of homeowners
have moved in are very satisfied in their home (62% of
the last ten years found outright homeowners are very satisfied
the process easy vs. 48% of mortgage homeowners)
23% experienced
‘a lot of financial
70% of homeowners
are living in
the first property they
purchased
sacrifice’ when buying
64%
48%
see their
34%
have ‘some
live where they
have family
members close by
neighbourhood difficulty’ meeting
changing for the monthly
better (58% in Dublin mortgage
vs. 43% outside
Dublin)
costs 40% live where they
spent most of
their childhood
Housing Agency28 / National Study of Irish Housing Experiences,
Attitudes and Aspirations in Ireland
The survey found a significant proportion of who own their home outright (62%).
See Figure 4.2.
homeowners ‘strongly agreeing’ with the
The survey found a significant
statements that they find their homes easy to live proportion of homeowners ‘strongly
in (76%), that their homes are suited to their needs agreeing’ with the statements that
they find their homes easy to live in
(76%), that they have chosen to live there (79%) (76%), that their homes are suited to
and that they enjoy living in their home (76%) their needs (76%), that they have
chosen to live there (79%) and that
they enjoy living in their home (76%).
with their home. Housing satisfaction with their current home. It was found A shortage of space is the most
for homeowners is very high, with that mortgage holders (48%) are less common housing problem,
95% being ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ likely to be ‘very satisfied’ than those experienced by 15% of all homeowners.
Figure 4.3: Incidence of dwelling problems – Dublin vs. outside Dublin
(% ‘somewhat a problem’ and ‘a big problem’) (n=764)
0% 5% 10% 15% 20%
Shortage of space 15%
Home too big for current needs 11%
Rot in windows, doors/floors 6%
Damp or leaks in walls or roof 7%
Noise from neighbouring homes 9%
Lack of a bath/shower 4%
Lack of downstairs toilet/
11%
bathroom facilities
Lack of a place to sit outside
4%
(garden/balcony/terrace)
Difficulties carrying out
12%
maintenance/upkeep yourself
Difficulties with the cost of upkeep 13%
Difficulties keeping home warm 13%
Home not feeling safe/secure 6%
Dublin Outside Dublin Total
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