A loophole in the Winter Eviction Ban has been found and is a threat to people living in Waterford.
Landlords locally have been increasing rent by up to 25% resulting in tenants being unable to pay.
This means they have broken the eviction agreement and they can be forced to move out.
Local Councillor, Eamon Quinlan, told WLR some areas are protected, but others are not.
People living on the Dunmore Road, or in Passage East, and Waterford City South are protected.
Those in areas such as Gracedieu, Hillview, Ballybricken, Ferrybank, Butlerstown, Tramore, and Fenor are not in a Rent Pressure Zone and therefore are at risk.
"This is a loophole I feel the government didn't see coming but I feel it needs to be closed ASAP," Councillor Quinlan said.
He also mentioned that he has been in touch with Waterford Minister, Mary Butler, in relation to the issue.
She will raise it with the Department and it is hoped she will get clarification that the amount of rent being paid during the lifetime of the ban should remain at the amount it was before the ban was introduced.
"By increasing rent so high so fast, families can't keep up with it, and then if they are unable to pay the new increased rent, they've breached their tenant obligations," Councillor Quinlan said.
For more Waterford news and sport, click here.
