Review of rate liability in the Domestic Rental Sector

There is a public consultation on rate liability in the domestic rental sector.

The aim of the consultation is to develop a domestic rates policy that is

• Fair
• Workable and affordable
• Support the effective and efficient collection of rates
• Are clear on responsibilities
• Are consistent.

The review is timely due to recent changes in Northern Ireland including:

• a marked reduction in home ownership and an increase in the private rented sector;
• on-going and forthcoming changes in the way social housing is provided
• recent Welfare Reforms and new arrangements for payment of housing costs;
• the development of major new purpose built student housing in Belfast for Queens University, with private operators fulfilling demand for the relocation of the University of Ulster.

The closing date for responses is 3 June. Responses will be made available on the Rating Policy Divisions Website.