Landlord Receives Damages After Tenant’s Threats and Antisocial Behavior
The Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) has ordered tenants Chloe Crawford and David Ward to pay €3,150 in rent arrears and €2,500 in damages to landlords Lorraine and John Ryan, following a case involving threats and antisocial behavior. The tenants were also directed to vacate the property within 21 days of the tribunal’s order.
Background of the Case
The dispute originated from a property located at Dunlo Harbour, Ballinasloe, Co Galway. The landlords, Lorraine and John Ryan, initiated eviction proceedings after alleging antisocial behavior by Crawford and Ward. An initial notice of termination issued in January 2025 was deemed invalid by an RTB adjudicator last June, but the Ryans successfully appealed this decision to a full RTB tribunal.
Tribunal Findings
The RTB tribunal found, on the balance of probabilities, that the tenants breached their obligations by engaging in antisocial behavior. This included ongoing littering and dumping of personal items in and around the property, and disruptive behavior that interfered with the peaceful enjoyment of their homes by neighbors. The landlords reported receiving numerous complaints from both the complex’s management company and other residents.
Serious Threats Made Against Landlords
The tribunal also found that the landlords were subjected to “serious and alarming threats” from the tenants, causing them fear. Lorraine Ryan testified that she received threats, including a direct threat from David Ward to murder her and her children if she returned to the property or contacted Chloe Crawford again. This followed an incident where Crawford allegedly abused and threatened Ryan when confronted about her behavior.
Tenants’ Absence from Hearing
Notably, Chloe Crawford and David Ward did not appear before the tribunal to contest the evidence presented by the landlords. The tenants had been paying €1,050 per month in rent through State housing assistance payments.
Outcome and Orders
The RTB upheld the eviction notice and ordered the tenants to pay the arrears and damages. The tribunal ordered the tenants to vacate the dwelling within 21 days of the tribunal’s order. The landlords indicated they intended to sell the property due to the stress and anxiety caused by the situation.