Landlord and tenant obligations

Whether you are a landlord or tenant, it is vital that you are aware of your legal rights and obligations. The law protects both parties and does not permit you to take the law into your own hands - irrespective of the circumstances.

Statutory requirements

Anyone letting, selling or managing premises must comply with the following legislation:

The Disability Discrimination Order (NI) 2006
The Sex Discrimination (Northern Ireland) Order 1976
The Race Relations (NI) Order 1997.

If you are in doubt about anything, you should seek clarification from the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland and / or seek legal advice. You can can use the link below to get more information:

Equality Commision for Northern Ireland

What is the landlord responsible for?

repairs to the structure and exterior of the property, heating and hot water systems, basins, sinks, baths and other sanitaryware
the safety of gas and electrical appliances
the fire safety of furniture and furnishings provided under the tenancy
ensuring that the property is fit for habitation
repairing and keeping in working order the room and water heating equipment
the common areas in multi-occupancy dwellings

For additional information on landlord responsibilites you should check the Housing Executive's website:, using the link below

Landlords' guide - Northern Ireland Housing Executive website

In addition, the landlord is entitled to reasonable access to the property to inspect and carry out repairs.

The landlord is also obliged under the Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006, to provide the tenant with a rent book free of charge and a statement of tenancy terms within 28 days of the tenancy commencing. Landlords can find out more using the link below:

Information on the Private Tenancies Order - Department for Social Development website

What is the tenant responsible for?

paying the rent as agreed
bills for gas, electricity, telephone, etc if this was agreed with your landlord
keeping the property in a reasonable state of cleanliness and decoration
making sure that you, members of your household or your visitors do not harass, cause nuisance or annoyance to the occupiers of any neighbouring or adjoining premises

For additional information on tenant obligations you should check the following link: