OWEN KEEGAN HAS resigned as chairperson of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB), less than two years into his five-year term.

The RTB confirmed today that Keegan informed the organisation he is stepping down with immediate effect for personal reasons.

Keegan, who had previously served as Dublin City Council chief, was appointed chair in November 2024 after serving previously as interim director of the RTB for eight months.

The RTB is the State body responsible for regulating the rental sector, including tenancy registration, dispute resolution and enforcement of rental law.

Keegan oversaw the organisation during a period of major legislative change, including the implementation of updated rental rules that took effect in March, which altered how rent increases are calculated and strengthened tenancy protections.

He was due to serve as chairperson until 31 October 2029.

In a statement, RTB director Rosemary Steen thanked Keegan for his “significant service” and said he brought extensive public sector experience to the role during a period of “substantial progress and development”.

“Owen brought a wealth of experience and a long track record of public service to the RTB,” Steen said.

“He has made an important contribution to delivering a rental sector that works for the people of Ireland.”

Minister for Housing James Browne will now begin the process of appointing a new chairperson to the board.

In a statement this evening, Browne thanked Keegan “for his service in this role and his contribution to the work of the RTB”.

“He played a significant role in critical work around implementing the changes in rental legislation from this year from 1 March 2026. I wish him the best going forward,” Browne added.

A successor will be appointed in due course.