Small claims procedure

You can use the small claims procedure to resolve certain types of disputes. Your claim must be for less than €2,000. You should try to resolve your dispute with the business directly first.

If the business you bought from is based in another EU country, you can use the European small claims procedure.

Types of claims dealt with

The small claims procedure is available for claims about:

• goods or services you bought
• a deposit you paid for some types of rental agreements, for example holiday homes (for most tenancy disputes, you apply to the Residential Tenancies Board instead)
• minor damage to your property

You can’t use the small claims procedure for debts, personal injuries, or disputes about leases and hire purchase agreements.

Businesses can also claim against other businesses for goods and services purchases.

How to make a small claim

You can either make an application:

• online
• at your local District Court office

It costs €25 to make a complaint using the small claims procedure.

If you are unsure about your application, you should speak to the Small Claims Registrar in your local District Court office.

How the small claims procedure works

The Small Claims Registrar often helps to settle the case before it goes to court. After you complain, the respondent (the business you complained about) is sent the details of your complaint. The business might admit the claim and agree to resolve the dispute.

Alternatively, they may dispute the claim, or counterclaim, which means that they make a claim against you.

If the dispute cannot be resolved, your claim will be referred for a hearing in the District Court. After the hearing, the judge will issue their judgment. The business must comply with the judgment within 28 days. If they do not do so, you can apply for the execution of your judgment through the Sheriff or Country Registrar.

You can read more about the small claims procedure on the Courts Service website and the Citizens Information website.