What Happens Next?

If you tell us you are homeless we will investigate your claim. There are six possible outcomes to our investigation:

1. You are not eligible for housing assistance, but you are homeless and have a priority need.

We will offer you temporary accommodation for a limited period only. You will not be considered for social housing at this time, but you may be considered at a future date. This decision can only be applied if you are a UK resident.

2. You are eligible, but not homeless.

You can still apply for Housing Executive and housing association accommodation under the Housing Selection Scheme.

3. You are eligible and homeless but not in priority need.

We will give you information to help you find your own accommodation. You may also apply for Housing Executive and housing association accommodation under the Housing Selection Scheme.  

4. You are eligible and homeless and you might be in priority need.

You may be offered temporary accommodation until we have completed our enquiries.

5. You are eligible and homeless and in priority need but intentionally homeless.

You may be placed, if you wish, in temporary accommodation for a reasonable period to allow you to find your own accommodation.

6. You are eligible and homeless and in priority need and homeless through no fault of your own.

You will be provided with a permanent home. If a permanent home is not immediately available temporary accommodation can be provided.

Appeals procedure

If you wish to challenge our decision then please contact us as soon as possible. You should first write your Area Manager. If you are dissatisfied with the Area Manager’s decision you may then appeal to the Director of Housing & Regeneration.

Important Information

If, in support of your application, you deliberately make false statements or knowingly withhold information which you know to be relevant, you are committing an offence under the Housing (NI) Order 1988 and you are liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to £1,000.