Dublin will need twice the amount of new homes currently being built if it is to meet demand over the next five years, according to a survey by the Dublin Institute of Technology.
Government figures suggest 14,000 new homes annually would meet demand, but the DIT says the problem is far more severe.
With around 10,000 houses coming on the market, it is claimed as many as 20,000 every year until 2006 are required.
Dr Brendan Williams of the DIT says 'excess demand' is the principal reason behind declining affordability.
The Society of Chartered Surveyors says current Government housing policy must now be re-examined.
