Mid Ulster landlords have one month to register their properties, or face a fine

And failure to do so may result in a fine of up to £2,500, according to Social Development Minister Mervyn Storey.

The register, which must be signed before February 25 for existing lets, was developed so that the Department of Social Development (DSD) could establish a list of landlords who operate in Northern Ireland.

It will enable them to give property proprietors up-to-date information and support in relation to their responsibilities to tenants, whilst ensuring that the quality of homes available to let, meet the required standards.

And with this mind, the government is urging everyone to look for the Landlord Registration logo and registration number when taking up a new tenancy.

“Tenants have the right to expect good quality and well managed accommodation for the rent they pay,” Minister Storey said.

“Most landlords providing private rented accommodation do just that for their tenants and abide by the law.

“The Landlord Registration Scheme is an important initiative led by my department to help maintain and improve the standards of the private rented sector in Northern Ireland.

“To date, some 13,814 landlords and 31,278 properties have been registered. Each of their tenants can be assured that their landlord has signed up and is committed to good practice in this sector.

“Landlords will also be safe in the knowledge that they will be kept up to date with important information and support in relation to their duties and responsibilities.

“With the deadline for the Landlord Registration scheme approaching, I am reminding all landlords to register, or face a fine.”

Landlords can register at www.nidirect.gov.uk/landlord, they can also register by calling 0300 200 7821. Telephone and online registrations cost £70 and paper registrations cost £80.

The fee is applicable regardless of how many properties a landlord owns.