‘Terrifying’: Woman says landlord was hiding behind wall of Wexford holiday home

A controversial Wexford landlord has received approval for a major expansion of an apartment block, despite recent allegations of unsafe practices involving a holiday home. The incident has sparked public concern over tenant safety and the responsibilities of landlords in rental properties. The controversy began when a woman named Therese booked an overnight stay at a holiday home in County Wexford through Booking.com. She and her partner and two children arrived at the property, where they were greeted by the landlord. During their visit, Therese noted that the landlord had his clothes in the dryer, prompting her to ask if he would be present when they returned from a family party. He assured her he would not be there. Upon returning several hours later, Therese noticed the washing machine was running, leading her to believe the landlord might be inside. She felt uneasy and asked her partner to check upstairs. He discovered a thin piece of plasterboard in the living room, with a nail embedded in it. When he moved the board, it revealed a dark space behind it, and he heard someone calling out, “Hey, hey.” Therese and her partner quickly gathered their children and left the property. The experience left Therese deeply shaken. She described the encounter as “terrifying” and “scary,” noting how the unexpected discovery of a person hidden behind a wall created a sense of fear and vulnerability. She said the moment was so shocking that she initially doubted the reality of what had occurred. Therese expressed her distress over the situation, stating that the experience would likely make her avoid booking holiday homes in the future. She emphasized that even though she feels safe in her own home, the psychological impact of the incident remains profound. She criticized the landlord for not being transparent about his presence during their stay, arguing that as a property owner who rents out the home, he should have anticipated the need for clarity. Booking.com has since launched an investigation into the incident, following reports from Therese. A spokesperson for the platform stated that the property has been suspended from its listings until the investigation concludes. The company reiterated its commitment to safety and security, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. Local authorities confirmed that gardaí were called to the scene on Sunday, 20 July. However, no criminal offense was disclosed at this stage. The garda spokesperson noted that the response team attended the property but found no evidence of wrongdoing. The landlord, who reportedly met Therese at the front of the house after the incident, claimed he had never met her before. This assertion has raised further questions about the circumstances surrounding the incident. Therese accused the landlord of causing trauma to herself and her children, expressing frustration that he did not simply inform her of his presence during their stay. As the investigation continues, the case highlights broader concerns regarding the safety and transparency of rental accommodations, particularly in holiday homes. The incident has prompted calls for stricter oversight of property management practices and increased accountability for landlords. Meanwhile, Therese remains focused on moving forward, determined to ensure such an experience does not occur again.