Improving properties in rural areas

Our House condition surveys show a continuing reduction in the number of unfit houses in both urban and rural areas.

While unfitness remains higher in rural areas, the difference has narrowed. In 2016, 4% of rural housing was unfit compared to 1% in urban areas.

Most unfit houses are in private ownership, and located in the more isolated rural areas.

Improving your property

Help to tackle poor housing conditions in the private sector is available through our home improvement grants service.

If you own a home that has architectural or historic merit you may be interested in our guide to traditional buildings.

Energy efficiency

We want to promote greater energy efficiency in rural dwellings

Rural properties can be hard to heat as they are often older buildings with solid walls. Their location can also mean they do not have access to the gas network, and that oil deliveries are more expensive.

You can find out more about becoming energy efficient by contacting our Energy Advisers:

• NI Energy Advice - GET IN TOUCH