Frequently asked questions

Do I need to register my property for the maximum number of tenants?

No, you can register for as few as you like provided the minimum number of facilities are available and the bedroom sizes are sufficient for 1 or 2 people.

This is illustrated in the following examples:

Facilities	Minimum Occupancy	Maximum Occupancy
2 Bathrooms (bath/shower, sink and toilet)	7	9
1 living room (16.5m² or more)
1 kitchen (8.5m²or more)
9 double bedrooms (each 10.5m² or more)

Facilities	Minimum Occupancy	Maximum Occupancy
3 Bathrooms (bath/shower, sink and toilet)	7	18
1 living room of 29m²
1 kitchen 13m²
9 double bedrooms (each 10.5m² or more)

Formal action can be taken against you if you permit more people to occupy the premises than it is registered for. Should you wish to increase the occupancy limit contact Environmental Health for advice.

If I am an owner occupier do I still need to register?

Yes. Your property would still be considered as a HMO. Your private accommodation would form part of the HMO therefore would need to meet the minimum standards within the Standards Regulations as well as regulations applicable to fire safety, planning and building control.

I offer breakfast to my tenants. Do I need to register?

If you are not registered as tourist accommodation and fall within the HMO definition you may need to register. A determination will be made by Environmental Health Officer.

I want to operate as tourist accommodation

If you decide you want to run your property as tourist accommodation you will need to contact Tourism at the Department of Economic Development for advice.