If you think you are about to become homeless you should get advice immediately. You may be able to avoid becoming homeless by finding out your rights and dealing with your problems immediately. You can often avoid becoming homeless if you get advice at an early stage. The Housing Executive has a legal duty to give housing advice and information on preventing homelessness to anyone who asks in Northern Ireland.

Advisers can help you with a wide range of housing problems. They can examine your circumstances and help you find the best solution to your problem.

Staying in your home

If you are about to become homeless you may have rights to stay in your home. It may also be possible to negotiate with your landlord or lender. If you are having problems with the people you live with you may be able to get help to improve your relationship. More  

Leaving care

Care leavers are more likely to become homeless than other young people. Being well prepared can reduce the risk of becoming homeless. Social services must help you, and can make it easier for you to become independent. More  

Domestic abuse

If you're experiencing domestic abuse from someone you live with (or used to live with) you may want to leave your home. You may be able to get a court order that stops the abusive person from contacting you or staying in the home. You can talk to a Woman's Aid helpline worker 24 hours a day on 0800 917 1414. More

Evicted or asked to leave

Homeowners and tenants only have to leave if a court tells them to. If you're staying with friends or family you have fewer rights. Every situation is different so you should get advice as soon as possible. More  

On remand or leaving prison

If you have just been arrested your housing situation may not be a high priority. However, you should think about your housing situation especially if you live alone. More

Leaving home voluntarily

Leaving home can give you more freedom and independence but it?s not guaranteed to be a positive experience. It isn't always easy to find a suitable place and living on your own can be expensive. Preparing properly makes leaving home easier and can help you to avoid becoming homeless. More  

Debt problems

Debt can happen to anyone, and the basic procedure for dealing with debt is the same for everybody. You should deal with your debt problem quickly, and talk to your creditors. More

Mediation and counselling

Mediation may be able to help you find a solution to your housing problem. It is not appropriate in every case but can be very effective. If your housing problem is only one issue you need to solve counselling may help you tackle some of your other issues. More