Complaints & legal action in Northern Ireland

This section looks at how to complain if you are unhappy with the service provided by the Housing Executive or a housing association. It also covers the Northern Ireland legal system and help that's available if you have to go to court. The section includes a detailed look at how to use the small claims court, especially if you are looking to get back your deposit from a landlord.

Problems with the Housing Executive

Try to sort out any problems you have quickly and locally by contacting the District Office dealing with your problem. If you are still unhappy you can use the internal complaints procedure. More

Problems with a housing association

You can use your housing association's complaints procedure for most problems. There is a different procedure if your housing association is trying to end your introductory tenancy. More

Housing benefit complaints

This section outlines how to appeal your housing benefit decision and your options if your appeal is unsuccessful. More

Complaining to the Ombudsman

You can complain to the Ombudsman if you are unhappy about your treatment by a government department or a public body. The Ombudsman is free and independent. More

Judicial review

If you are unhappy with the way a public body has made a decision you may be able to ask for a judicial review. This can be a long and expensive process, and there is no guarantee that the decision will be changed. More

Northern Ireland legal system

You may be able to get help from the courts if you have a housing problem. Civil courts can help you get compensation, while you can go to criminal court if your landlord has committed a criminal offence. More

Court costs & legal aid

If you are involved in court action you may have to pay a range of fees unless you are getting legal aid. More

Help with your case

This section looks at the help available if you are planning on going to court – from solicitors and barristers to advice agencies. More

Small claims court

You can go to Small Claims Court if your claim is under £2,000. You can't use the small claims court if you are claiming for a personal injury. More

The Property Ombudsman

If you have a complaint about the conduct of an estate agent, the Property Ombudsman may be able to help you. More