A Statutory Registration Scheme for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) came into force, in Northern Ireland, on 1 May 2004.
There are nearly 10,000 HMOs in Northern Ireland, which house up to 40,000 people. The main purpose of the Scheme is to ensure that safe and well-managed accommodation is provided. Apart from fire safety, other standards required relate to kitchen, toilet, and washing facilities.
Landlords of HMO properties, which must be registered under the Scheme, are required to comply with all of its provisions by the dates shown in the registration document. Non-compliance with the Scheme's provisions will lead to penalties being imposed, such as fines. Non-compliance may also result in the withdrawal of permission for a property to operate as a HMO.