About laba
laba comes from leaba, the Irish word for bed.
Why we started
Many people in Ireland have a spare room and would welcome company and some extra income, but don't list it because it feels risky or confusing.
At the same time, people moving for work or study struggle to find a room they can trust.
What makes laba different
Checked people, a written lodger agreement, a report button on every page, and a person reviewing every new host's first listing.
laba works in English and Irish, and is designed to be easy for everyone to use, with large text and a dark mode.
The name
laba: from leaba, the Irish word for bed, spelt the way it sounds.
Giving back
Ireland's housing shortage is the reason laba exists. So we give 10% of our profits to Focus Ireland, which helps people out of homelessness and into homes of their own.
We'll publish how much we've given each year.
laba is an independent company and isn't part of Focus Ireland.
About Focus IrelandIf you're a host
Hosts may be able to claim Rent-a-Room Relief. See Revenue's guidance on rent-a-room relief to check whether it applies to you.
Before taking a lodger, check with your home insurer and, if you have a mortgage, your lender.
Official information and free advice
- Residential Tenancies Board (RTB)
- Threshold: free housing advice
- Citizens Information
- Revenue: Rent-a-Room Relief
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. For advice about your situation, contact Citizens Information, Threshold or a solicitor.