Lowry small crop
Lowry Court, south Belfast

Making Your Move

Alpha Housing has range of homes available from sheltered apartments and bungalows for older people to 'general needs' family homes.

Both the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) and housing associations throughout NI provide social rented housing. Collectively we are called 'social landlords'.

NIHE is responsible for administering and assessing new applications. Once you have been assessed, you will be added to the Housing Selection Scheme waiting list, through which all housing associations in NI allocate their homes to those in greatest need.

To apply for an Alpha home, you will need to complete a short application form. See our step-by-step guidance below.

How do I apply for home?

step 1
step 2

Step 2

Once the form has been completed, you will need to return this to your local NIHE Office. Click here to find your local NIHE Office

step 3

Step 3

When you have returned your application form, a member of staff from NIHE will contact you to complete an assessment of your housing needs.

This can be completed:

  • In a local NIHE office
  • During a home visit; or
  • Over the phone
step 4

Step 4

Once your application has been assessed, and you have met the criteria for social housing, NIHE will place you on the Housing Selection Scheme waiting list. This is also known as the social housing waiting list. You will be asked to select two preferred geographical areas, called 'Common Landlord Areas', that you wish to be considered for.

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Step 5

When an Alpha home becomes available within your area of choice and you meet the criteria for that home, we will send you a letter. If you receive a vacancy letter from us, and you are interested in the home, please contact Alpha's Housing Department who will guide you through the next steps.

Applying for a Transfer
Frequently Asked Questions