Councils take lead in licencing shared homes

From April 1, local councils will assume the role of licensing authority for HMOs in their area, under The Houses in Multiple Occupation Act (Northern Ireland) 2016. Councils will have enhanced powers to regulate properties to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of tenants.
 
Under the new scheme, councils can put specific conditions on a licence, take enforcement action or, if necessary, revoke a licence. They can also refuse to issue a new licence if there is over-provision in an area, or if the landlord is not deemed fit.
 
The administration and implementation of the Act is managed regionally by the NI HMO Unit, who are based Belfast City Council. For more information E.nihmo@belfastcity.gov.uk ,
 T. 028 9027 0428 or visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/nihmo
 
HMO tenants will also be able to check online to make sure their home is licensed properly and can report any issues or concerns to the NI HMO Unit, based in Belfast City Council.
 
For more information call the NI HMO Unit on T. 028 9027 0428 or visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/nihmo