Fixed term tenancies from April

The Department of Social Care is introducing fixed term public sector tenancies next month.

From April, all new tenancies will be for a fixed period of five years .

The department says this will provide more flexibility to public sector landlords, allowing them to manage their stock effectively. Tenancies will be renewed wherever there is an ongoing housing need, but where there has been a change in circumstances, tenancy terms can be adjusted accordingly.

The move is seen as a first step towards a future introduction of means testing.

Minister for Social Care Howard Quayle MHK says tenancy reviews will be carried out with sensitivity - but from April all new public sector tenants will be aware their tenancy is not for life.