HMO grants: approval of applicationN.I.
59.—(1) The Executive may approve an application for an HMO grant if it thinks fit, subject to the following provisions.
(2) The Executive shall not approve an application for an HMO grant unless it is satisfied that the works are necessary for one or more of the purposes set out in Article 58(1) or (2).
(3) Where the Executive entertains an application for an HMO grant made by a person who proposes to acquire a qualifying owner's interest, it shall not approve the application until it is satisfied that he has done so.
(4) Where the Executive proposes to approve an application for an HMO grant, it shall consider whether the house to which the application relates is fit for human habitation and [F1is suitable for occupation as an HMO in accordance with section 13 of the Act of 2016] .
(5) If it appears to the Executive that the house is not fit for human habitation [F2or is not suitable for such occupation] , the Executive shall not approve the application unless it is satisfied—
(a)that on completion of the relevant works, together with any other works proposed to be carried out, the house will be fit for human habitation and [F3suitable for such occupation] ,
(b)that there are satisfactory financial and other arrangements for carrying out those works, and
(c)that the carrying out of the works is the most satisfactory course of action.
(6) In considering whether to approve an application for an HMO grant the Executive shall have regard to the expected life of the house (taking account, where appropriate, of the effect of carrying out the works).
F1Words in art. 59(4) substituted (1.4.2019) by Houses in Multiple Occupation Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (c. 22), s. 90(2), Sch. 7 para. 6(5)(a); S.R. 2019/39, art. 2 (with art. 3)
F2Words in art. 59(5) substituted (1.4.2019) by Houses in Multiple Occupation Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (c. 22), s. 90(2), Sch. 7 para. 6(5)(b); S.R. 2019/39, art. 2 (with art. 3)
F3Words in art. 59(5)(a) substituted (1.4.2019) by Houses in Multiple Occupation Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (c. 22), s. 90(2), Sch. 7 para. 6(5)(c); S.R. 2019/39, art. 2 (with art. 3)