Explanatory Memorandum

Houses in Multiple Occupation Act (Northern Ireland) 2016

2016 CHAPTER 22

12 May 2016

Commentary on Sections

Part 1: Meaning of “House in Multiple Occupation”

Section 6: Notice regarding continuation of occupation

Section 6 makes provision for a council to serve a notice on a property that has ceased to operate as an HMO, because its occupants have reduced below 3, but which the council believe is likely to become an HMO again within 4 months. For example a student house during the summer months can then be treated as an HMO for certain regulatory purposes, even though it may actually have fewer than 3 people residing in it during those months.