The Private Tenancies (NI) Order 2006 (Article 33) requires properties built before 1 January 1945, whose tenancies commence after 1 April 2007, to have a fitness inspection carried out, unless they already have a certificate of fitness in place or the property is exempt.
A property which has recently undergone a full renovation and/or refurbishment will still require a fitness inspection if one original wall remains.
A tenant may also apply for certificate of fitness, if there is a Certificate of Fitness in effect and they are of the opinion the property they live in is no longer fit to live in.
The legislation aims to:
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Provide a better standard of accommodation within the private rented sector in Northern Ireland
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Allow landlords to maximise rent
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Ensure protected tenants retain their security of tenure.
A property is exempt if:
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A renovation grant was paid by Northern Ireland Housing Executive within the last 10 years
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An HMO grant was paid by the NIHE within the last 10 years
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The dwelling is currently registered as an HMO with the NIHE
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A regulated rent certificate was issued by district council within the last 10 years.
Properties will be inspected by Environmental Health officers against a Fitness Standard.
Contact Environmental Health About Private Tenancies.
Tel: 03000 132 132
E: environmentalhealth@midulstercouncil.org
Other Important Legislation Relating To Private Tenancies
All landlords must register in accordance with the Landlord Registration Scheme
All tenancy deposits taken on or after the 1 April 2013 must be protected with an approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme administrator.
Information Booklets:
Private Tenancies Advice for Landlords
Private Tenancies Advice for Tenancies
Websites for additional information:
Useful resources:
Rent Books - A landlord must provide a Rent Book to their tenant.
Tenancy Terms - A landlord must issue tenancy terms for tenancies commencing after 1 April 2007. View a Model Tenancy Agreement.