This section looks at the process of applying for accommodation from the Housing Executive or a housing association in Northern Ireland.

It looks at the application process, how housing is allocated and how to deal with any problems you have when applying.

Contact a local advice agency if you are unsure of your rights or you are having problems with your application.

Eligibility and general rules

Most people in Northern Ireland are allowed to apply for permanent accommodation from the Housing Executive or a housing association. You won?t usually be allowed to apply for permanent accommodation if you are under 18, you are seeking asylum in Northern Ireland or the Housing Executive decides your behaviour has been unacceptable. More

How to apply

You only use the Selection Scheme to apply for permanent accommodation if you are not a Housing Executive or housing association tenant. Current Housing Executive or housing association tenants use the transfer or exchange procedure to get new accommodation. More

How points are worked out

The Housing Executive examines your personal circumstances before giving you points in four sections: Intimidation, homelessness points, housing conditions and your health or social well being. Your points total reflects your need to move accommodation. More

Common problems

This section looks at some of the most common problems you may have when applying for Housing Executive or housing association accommodation. More

After you have been assessed

You are automatically placed on the waiting list after the Housing Executive assesses you. Accommodation is usually offered to the applicant with the highest points total on the Selection Scheme. You are entitled to three reasonable offers of permanent accommodation. More

Transfers and exchanges

Most Housing Executive and housing association tenants are allowed to transfer from or exchange their property. If you apply for a transfer you will be pointed using the Selection Scheme. You will usually have to go on the waiting list. More

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