The vast majority of landlords are responsible and fair. In the unlikely event you experience trouble with your landlord, your council has some legal powers it can use to help.
The Rent (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 defines harassment and illegal eviction as criminal offences. Your council has the power to prosecute people who commit offences. Environmental Health Officers from the council will investigate complaints and will consider bringing a prosecution where there is enough evidence to indicate that it will be successful and where it is in the public interest.
The council also has powers to prosecute landlords who fail to meet their obligations under the Private Tenancies Order (Northern Ireland) 2006. Such matters include the failure of landlords to provide rent books or a statement of tenancy terms. Where a complaint is received, the council's Environmental Health Officers will try to ensure that the required information is provided.
However, in the case of persistent failure to provide the information a prosecution will be considered.
Please use the link below to access your local council's website and find contact details for the environmental health department:
You can also get advice from the Housing Rights Service by clicking on the link below:
Further information is available on the Department for Social Development website using the link below :
Property and housing
