If you need a place immediately, the Housing Executive may have to house you - you don't have to be sleeping on the street. You should apply as homeless. This is not the same as going on the waiting list.

The Housing Executive will make special enquiries to work out what you're entitled to.

If so, the rules are different. If you're under 18, social services are responsible for you. They should continue helping you until you turn 21, or 24 if you're a full-time student.

If you're eligible for assistance (which most people are) the Housing Executive can't turn you away without looking into your situation first. If they do, get in touch with an adviser to make sure you're not being treated unfairly.

There are other options if the Housing Executive says it doesn't have to help you. It's also worth contacting your local advice centre for a second opinion. They may be able to help you challenge the decision.

Most people are eligible to apply for a Housing Executive or housing association tenancy. But this doesn't mean that you will get a house immediately. Many areas have long waiting lists.