Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are an important part of the private rented sector and can provide affordable housing for some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups in society, or those on low incomes, students and migrant workers. Because of the higher risks of living in an HMO, they are subjected to a higher level of regulation than other rented housing.
In June 2023 the Department for Communities produced a report looking at the operational issues raised in a review of the Houses in Multiple Occupation Act (NI) 2016, and the responses from landlords, tenants and the Northern Ireland Houses in Multiple Occupation Unit (NIHMO Unit) based in Belfast City Council (BCC). The report summarises the requests for changes to the legislation and the Department’s proposals (subject to Ministerial approval).
Report and proposals from the review of Houses in Multiple Occupation Licensing Scheme