Private Rented Sector

The fast moving developments over the last few years in the housing and economic market have prompted a review of existing policy and the development of a new strategy for the private rented sector.  Over 81,000 properties are already occupied in the private rented sector, accounting for 11.5% of the total housing stock and the demand for housing coninues to grow.  The aim of the strategy is to encourage the development of a healthy private rented sector, capable of responding more effectively to the housing need in Northern Ireland.

Some of the main issues the strategy intends to address are, tackling problem landlords who do not comply with the law and raising awareness of the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants.

Building Sound Foundations - A Strategy for the Private Rented Sector was launched on Wednesday 24 March 2010

The consultation document represents one of the first steps on a longer term strategy for the private rented sector, with many proposals requiring legislation before they may be implemented.