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.

All applicants complete the same form and are placed on the same waiting list. How long you have to wait for accommodation depends on how many points you are awarded, which areas you choose to live in and the size and type of accommodation you need.

How the scheme works

Use the 'Housing / Transfer Application Form' to apply for permanent accommodation from the Housing Executive or a housing association. If you are currently a Housing Executive or housing association tenant you should apply for a transfer or exchange instead of using the Selection Scheme. More

Completing your application

The Housing Executive uses one form for both requesting and transferring accommodation - the 'Housing / Transfer Application Form'. This is also the form you use to apply to your local Housing Association. Fill it in carefully. You could be evicted if you gain a house using incorrect or false information. More

What happens next?

Everyone who applies for permanent accommodation from the Housing Executive or a housing association is assessed using the same scheme. The Housing Executive will assess your application and award you points based on your personal circumstances. The more points you get the higher up the list you are placed. The assessment process has four stages. More

Applying to live outside NI

Housing Executive and housing association tenants can apply for permanent accommodation in England, Scotland or Wales using two schemes: HOMES and Homeswaps. If you are not a Housing Executive or housing association tenant you must apply to the council in the area you want to live in More

Applying from outside NI

You will only be able to apply for permanent accommodation in Northern Ireland if you meet the rules on eligibility. More