This page is for landlords operating in Northern Ireland. You can find advice for tenants elsewhere on our website. Private landlords in Northern Ireland can call Landlord Advice on 028 9024 5640 and choosing option 5. Lines open Monday to Friday, from 9.30am to 2.30pm.
Once you set up as a landlord, you have certain rights which your tenants must respect.
Your tenants are obliged to keep their rental accounts up to date. If a tenant is late with rent or hasn't paid in full, you should contact them to find out what has happened.
In an emergency, you can enter the rented property to secure it or make it safe for others. However, you cannot usually enter the property without the prior consent of your tenants.
You have a right to begin eviction proceedings against your tenants. In some cases, you may have to have reasons for evicting a tenant. In other cases, you will simply have to follow the correct legal process.
Your tenants are expected to ensure your property is kept in a good state of decoration. This means that the tenant is expected to make sure the property is clean and ventilated. You can take legal action against your tenants if you believe you should be compensated for any damage caused to the property by your tenants.
Your tenancy agreement can give you additional rights, beyond those afforded to you in legislation. When drawing up a tenancy agreement, remember that any terms which are seen to be unfair are unenforceable.
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