Your tenancy is known as a ‘regulated tenancy’ under the terms of the Rent (Northern Ireland) Order 1978. This means that your rent cannot be increased above the level payable in 1978 unless it has been registered with the Housing Executive. The rent payable is set using a formula provided in law. You may also be obliged to pay the annual rates on your tenancy. You can appeal the level of rent to an independent rent assessment committee in certain circumstances, for example, if your tenancy is in poor repair or if you have carried out significant repairs or improvements yourself. Your tenancy can continue for your lifetime except in certain limited circumstances. You may also be able to pass on your tenancy to another member of your family.