Tenant awarded €13,000 in compensation after landlord discriminated against her for housing assistance payment (HAP) request during pregnancy

Landlords must abide by strict legal requirements when it comes to evicting tenants, especially if they are pregnant. Failing to do so can lead to hefty fines and damage their reputation. In a recent case, a landlord in Ireland was forced to pay €13,000 in damages after threatening to evict a pregnant tenant. The case highlights the importance of understanding one’s legal obligations as a landlord and treating tenants with respect, particularly during vulnerable times in their lives. In this article, we delve deeper into the case and the legal requirements landlords must follow when dealing with pregnant tenants.


Laura Keane, a tenant who claimed that her landlord, John Corley, threatened her with eviction after she asked him to sign off on a housing assistance payment (HAP) while she was pregnant, has been awarded €13,000 in compensation. The Workplace Relations Commission delivered the order against Mr Corley under the Equal Status Act 2000 on the grounds of discrimination following Ms Keane’s complaint. The commission directed Mr Corley to complete the HAP form and to accept HAP payments from the local council. During the equality hearing, Ms Keane said Mr Corley reacted aggressively to her request for a written lease and her application for HAP. An advocate from Threshold, a housing charity, claimed Mr Corley’s behaviour amounted to discrimination against the tenant. The tribunal found in favour of Ms Keane and made an order stating that Mr Corley must fill out the relevant HAP application form sections, accept HAP payments from the local council and meet all other necessary conditions to ensure Ms Keane can apply for and receive HAP.


In conclusion, the case of the landlord who threatened to evict a pregnant tenant and was ordered to pay €13,000 serves as a reminder that landlords have a responsibility to uphold the rights of their tenants. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable and deserve protection from any form of discrimination or harassment. This ruling not only provides justice for the victim but also sends a strong message that such actions will not be tolerated. It is important for landlords to educate themselves on the laws and regulations that govern the landlord-tenant relationship to avoid costly legal battles and uphold their obligation to provide safe and suitable housing to their tenants. Let us hope that this serves as a wake-up call to all landlords to treat their tenants with respect, fairness, and dignity.