Got a garage you never use? An attic full of dust bunnies? A spare room that's become a graveyard for exercise equipment? You're sitting on an underused asset — and in 2026, turning it into a steady stream of extra income is easier than ever.
Across Ireland, homeowners are quietly earning €600 to €1,500 a year (and often more) by renting out unused storage space to neighbours through peer-to-peer platforms like Packhood. This guide walks you through how it works, what you can realistically earn, the tax rules, and how to get your first booking.
Why Renting Out Storage Space Is a Smart Side Hustle
Compared to renting a room on Airbnb or driving for a delivery app, hosting storage is refreshingly low-effort. There's no cleaning between guests, no unsociable hours, and no wear and tear on your home. Once the space is listed and a renter has moved their items in, you barely have to think about it.
It's also one of the few "passive income" ideas that genuinely lives up to the name. Most Packhood hosts spend less than 30 minutes per month managing their listing after the initial setup.
How Much Can You Earn Renting Out a Garage in Ireland?
Your earnings depend on three things: the size of your space, your location, and how accessible it is. Here's a realistic snapshot of what hosts on Packhood are charging in 2026:
- Single garage in Dublin: €80–€130/month (€960–€1,560/year)
- Double garage in Dublin: €150–€220/month (€1,800–€2,640/year)
- Single garage in Cork, Galway, Limerick: €60–€100/month
- Attic or loft space: €40–€70/month
- Spare room: €50–€110/month
- Shed or outhouse: €35–€80/month
- Driveway or off-street parking: €80–€180/month (great for caravans, campers, and second cars)
A homeowner in Swords with a single garage who keeps it rented year-round can clear well over €1,200 a year. That's a weekend break, a new appliance, or a decent dent in the Christmas budget — just from space you weren't using anyway.
What Types of Space Can You List?
You don't need a purpose-built storage unit. On Packhood, hosts list all sorts of spaces:
- Garages (attached or detached)
- Attics and lofts
- Spare bedrooms
- Basements
- Garden sheds and outbuildings
- Driveways and off-street parking bays
- Unused corners of large utility rooms
The only real requirements are that the space is dry, reasonably secure, and accessible. Bonus points if it has good lighting, easy ground-floor access, or alarm/CCTV coverage.
Do I Have to Pay Tax on Storage Rental Income in Ireland?
Short answer: yes, but often less than you'd think. Income from renting out storage space is generally considered miscellaneous income and must be declared to Revenue.
Two important things to know:
- Rent-a-Room Relief does not apply to storage. That scheme is specifically for letting a room as residential accommodation. Storage income is treated separately.
- You can deduct expenses. A fair portion of electricity, insurance, and repairs related to the storage space can be deducted against the rental income.
If storage is your only additional income, you'll usually declare it via Form 12 (for PAYE workers) or Form 11 (if you're self-assessed). For specific advice, talk to an accountant — the cost is small compared to peace of mind.
How to Get Started as a Storage Host on Packhood
Setting up your first listing takes about 30 minutes. Here's the playbook:
- Clear and tidy the space. Sweep it out. Make sure it's dry and there are no leaks. First impressions matter for photos.
- Measure it. Length, width, and ceiling height. Knowing the dimensions helps renters figure out if their items will fit and signals that you're professional.
- Take good photos. Natural daylight, wide angles, and at least 4–6 shots from different angles. Include the entrance and any parking.
- Write a clear description. Mention size, access hours, security features (locks, alarm, CCTV), proximity to transport, and anything renters should know (e.g. "no valuables due to occasional damp in winter").
- Set a competitive price. Check similar listings in your area and price within the middle of the range. You can always raise your price later.
- Enable instant booking or review requests. The faster you can respond, the more bookings you'll land.
Tips to Earn More from Your Listing
- Offer a discount for long-term bookings. 5–10% off for 6+ months keeps your space occupied and reduces turnover.
- Highlight security features. CCTV, alarms, locks, and well-lit access are worth €10–€20 extra per month.
- Respond quickly. Renters often message multiple hosts. The first to reply usually wins.
- Keep your calendar up to date. Listings with accurate availability rank higher in search.
- Mention proximity to transport. "10 minutes from the M50" or "5 minutes from Heuston" is a genuine selling point.
Is It Safe to Have Strangers Store Things at My House?
This is the most common concern from new hosts, and Packhood is built around easing it. Every renter is identity-verified. Payments run through the platform — no cash, no chasing. Every booking is covered by the Packhood Host Guarantee, which protects you against property damage up to €300.
You also stay in full control. You set the access hours, approve every booking, and you decide what items are and aren't allowed (most hosts exclude hazardous materials, perishables, and valuables above a certain amount).
Ready to List Your Space?
If you've got unused storage space, there's a neighbour within a few kilometres who'd happily pay to use it. Listing takes 30 minutes, costs nothing, and could comfortably pay for your next holiday.
List your space on Packhood and start earning from the square metres you're already heating.