You need a certificate of fitness if:
- the dwelling was built before 1945
- a tenant moved in after 1 April 2007
- it does not have a Regulated Rent Certificate issued within the past 10 years
- it did not have a renovation grant paid by the Housing Executive within the past 10 years
- it did not have a HMO grant paid within the past 10 years
Making an application
The cost for the inspection is £50.
!WarningFailure to do so is an offence and can result in a fine.
When we receive your application
Our team will carry out an inspection of the property.
We will issue a certificate of fitness if the dwelling meets the fitness standard for human habitation.
To pass inspection the dwelling must:
- be structurally stable
- be free from serious disrepair
- be free from dampness prejudicial to the health of the occupants
- have adequate provision for lighting, heating and ventilation
- have an adequate piped supply of wholesome water
- have satisfactory facilities in the house for the preparation and cooking of food, including a sink with a satisfactory supply of hot and cold water
- have a suitably located toilet for the exclusive use of the occupants
- have a suitably located fixed bath or shower and wash-hand basin each of which is provided with a satisfactory supply of hot and cold water
- have an effective system for the draining of foul, waste and surface water
If one or more of these standards are not met, the dwelling will be deemed to be unfit and a notice of refusal will be issued. This means the rent for the property will be controlled by the Rent Officer for Northern Ireland until the works required to bring the property up to the fitness standard are carried out.
Apply for a Certificate of Fitness