Businesses, landlords and tenants across Omagh and the wider Fermanagh & Omagh district are being encouraged to have their say on proposed changes to notice to quit periods in the private rented sector.
The Department for Communities has launched a public consultation on the Private Tenancies (Notice to Quit) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2025, which would introduce significantly longer notice periods for tenants renting privately across Northern Ireland.
For Omagh, where the private rented sector plays a key role in housing local workers, families, students and business owners, these changes could have a direct impact on both housing stability and property management decisions.
What Is Being Proposed?
The new regulations are intended to strengthen tenant protections by extending notice to quit periods. However, before these changes can become law, the Department for Communities must also define specific circumstances where shorter notice periods may still apply.
This is to ensure a balanced approach that considers:
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The rights of tenants
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The responsibilities and rights of landlords
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Wider human rights considerations, including property rights and family life
What the Consultation Covers
The consultation is seeking feedback on four key areas:
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When longer notice periods would not apply, such as specific tenancy circumstances
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What shorter notice periods should apply in those cases
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What evidence landlords should provide to justify a shorter notice to quit
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What safeguards or mitigating measures should be in place to protect vulnerable tenants
An accompanying Equality Impact Assessment and draft guidance are also open for comment.
Who Should Take Part?
This consultation is relevant to:
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Private tenants living in Omagh and surrounding areas
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Landlords and letting agents operating locally
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District councils, community organisations and advice services
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Employers and business owners, where staff housing availability is a concern
Anyone with an interest in the local private rented sector is encouraged to respond.
Why It Matters Locally
Access to secure, fair and well-managed rental housing is vital for Omagh’s workforce, local businesses and community wellbeing. These proposed changes could shape how the private rented sector operates locally for years to come.
Taking part in the consultation ensures that local voices from Omagh are heard before decisions are finalised.
Read full details on the consultation on notice to quit periods.
How to respond to this consultation
The deadline for feedback to this consultation is 11:59pm on Sunday 29 March 2026.
You can respond to this consultation by completing the online form or by emailing prs@communities-ni.gov.uk.
