It is imperative to know your legal rights and position under the law. Do not take matters into your own hands. The law protects both the Landlord and the Tenant. You are well advised to consult with an experienced team of solicitors who understand, appreciate and know the best process to take in order to achieve a satisfactory outcome.
Know Your Responsibilities
It may be helpful to be aware of what each party is responsible for –
Landlord Obligations
- 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 responsibilities you should check the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s (NIHE) website, using the link below:
Advice for landlords – NIHE website
Tenant Obligations
- Paying the rent as agreed
- Paying the bills for gas, electricity and telephone, 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, the NIHE website.
Sabeers Stone Greene Solicitors is a law firm with a long history of providing legal services to Landlords or Tenants.