Introduction

This section of the site deals with some of the most important areas of private renting which you will need to be aware of if you are a landlord. It gives advice on minimum legal requirements which you must comply with.  Further information can be found in our booklet; ‘A Landlords Guide to Housing Benefit’ ( 389 KB)

There is also information on good practice, which we want to promote to make sure that private rented housing is fit to live in, safe, secure and properly managed. While we have tried to make this section as comprehensive as possible, there are a number of our services which will also be available to give you further advice on being a landlord, particularly in relation to your responsibilities to occupants and the standard of accommodation you are providing.

The information in this section does NOT apply:

• to landlords living in the same house as the tenant

• to the Housing Executive as landlord

• to registered Housing Associations

Remember, this is only a guide and not a definitive interpretation of all housing legislation. If you are uncertain about your position, you should seek independent legal advice on letting your property, through a solicitor or a professional letting agent.

Being a landlord should be made easier if you are clear from the start as to what exactly you have to let, how you want to let it and you have good information as to what is involved in letting out your property. We want to help both existing and prospective landlords to provide accommodation of a high standard. Do bear in mind that some of the regulations may change in future. Please check with the appropriate contacts if there is anything you are unsure about.

This section has been prepared for guidance only and is not to be taken as an authoritative document on law.

Whilst we have made every effort to ensure that all information contained in this section is correct, we must stress that it is your resaponsibility as a landlord to satisfy yourself on the suitability and safety of the premises. We can accept no liability in this respect whatsoever.