To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the process by which private tenants whose tenancy is being ended by their landlord can apply for a Housing Executive property; and (ii) the options available for such individuals and families who are unable to find another private tenancy before the end of their current tenancy and for whom a Housing Executive property is unavailable.

In relation to (i) the Housing Selection Scheme application process all social housing providers operate through a Common Selection Scheme, through which social tenancies are allocated to eligible applicants from a Common Waiting List. The application process is the same for all persons irrespective of the reason for the application.

The Housing Executive is responsible for the assessment of all new applications, and upon receipt, will contact the applicant to complete an assessment. Staff investigate whether the applicant is eligible for an allocation of social housing, and determine their housing need in reference to the rules of the Housing Selection Scheme. This discussion will also cover an applicant’s preference for where they would like to be housed, their prospects for rehousing in their area of choice, and can provide advice and assistance on other housing options. If an applicant is homeless or being threatened with homelessness, a further homeless assessment will be carried out.

If eligible the applicant will be placed on the Common Waiting List. Properties are allocated in order of housing need, with preference given to the earliest application in the event that two or more applicants have the same need. Applicants will remain on the Waiting List for so long as they continue to comply with the rules of the Housing Selection Scheme, until such time as they are rehoused or receive three reasonable offers.

In relation to (ii), the options available for such individuals and families who are unable to find another private tenancy before the end of their current tenancy and for whom a Housing Executive property is unavailable, the Housing Order 1988 (as amended) places a statutory duty on the Housing Executive to provide interim and/or permanent accommodation for certain homeless households, dependent upon investigations and assessment of their circumstances.

The Housing Executive’s approach to assisting those who are homeless or threatened with homeless is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2017-22, which can be accessed via their website.