Right to Buy in Northern Ireland: A Renter’s Guide

Understanding your options as a tenant in Northern Ireland can be empowering, especially if you live in social housing and are considering the Right to Buy scheme. This guide explains what the scheme is, who qualifies, the key forms, and where to go for more help—so you can make fully informed decisions about your home.

What Is the Right to Buy Scheme in Northern Ireland?

The Right to Buy scheme in Northern Ireland allows many social housing tenants—primarily those renting from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE)—the opportunity to purchase their home at a discounted price. Northern Ireland’s version of Right to Buy continues, even though similar schemes in England, Scotland, and Wales have ended.

Who Is Eligible?

You may be able to buy your NIHE home if:

• You have been a secure tenant of NIHE or a qualified housing association for at least five years (this can be non-continuous).
• Your home is your only or main residence.
• You don’t live in certain types of housing (like sheltered housing for older or vulnerable people).
• You have no serious rent arrears and aren’t currently facing eviction proceedings.

Further eligibility details are on the NIHE Right to Buy page.

How Does the Right to Buy Process Work?

If you’re eligible, the process involves several steps and forms. Here’s what to expect:

• 1. Apply with the Right to Buy application form (Form RTB1).
• 2. NIHE checks eligibility, then sends you the Offer Notice (Form RTB2), which details discount, price, and terms.
• 3. You can accept and proceed, or decline the offer.

Key Official Forms

• RTB1 (Right to Buy Application Form): Used to start your application.
  Practical example: If you’ve been a secure NIHE tenant for five years and want to apply, download, complete and submit this form to your local NIHE office.
  Download the NIHE RTB1 application form (PDF)
• RTB2 (Landlord’s Offer Notice): Sent to you by NIHE after processing your RTB1. Explains the sale price and discount.
  Example: You receive this within 12 weeks of your application if eligible, helping you decide if you wish to proceed.

Discounts, Costs, and What to Consider

The maximum discount is currently 60% of the property’s market value (up to a limit set by the government). The discount increases with the length of your tenancy. Remember:

• You’ll need to arrange a mortgage or other funding for the purchase.
• You become responsible for all maintenance and repairs if you buy.
• Selling your home within five years of purchase may mean you must repay some or all of the discount.

What About Housing Association Tenants?

Some housing association tenants may have a preserved Right to Buy or Right to Acquire, but rules differ. Contact your landlord and review NIHE Right to Acquire guidance for more details.

Legal Protections and Where to Appeal

Your rights during the Right to Buy process are protected under the Housing (Northern Ireland) Order 1983¹. If you have a dispute (for example, about qualification, valuation, or if your landlord refuses your application), you can appeal to the Lands Tribunal for Northern Ireland.

• Lands Tribunal for Northern Ireland – handles disputes about Right to Buy, valuation, and related matters.

Action Steps: Applying for Right to Buy

1. Check eligibility on the NIHE website.
2. Download and complete RTB1. Get help from NIHE if unsure about filling out the form.
3. Submit RTB1 to your local NIHE office and wait for the landlord’s response (RTB2).
4. If you disagree with NIHE’s decision, you can appeal via the Lands Tribunal for Northern Ireland.

Tackling the process step by step will help you make an informed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord refuse my Right to Buy application?
   NIHE or your landlord can only refuse your application for certain legal reasons, such as your property being designated for older people, if you have serious rent arrears, or if legal proceedings for eviction are underway. If you believe your application has been wrongly refused, you may appeal to the Lands Tribunal for Northern Ireland.
2. Do I need a solicitor to buy my home?
   While it’s not a legal requirement, using a solicitor is strongly recommended to handle the legal paperwork, contracts, and checks involved in buying your home.
3. How much discount can I get when buying my NIHE home?
   The discount is based on how long you’ve been a public sector tenant. The maximum allowed is currently 60% off the market value, up to the cap set by the government at the time you apply. Check the most up-to-date details on the NIHE Right to Buy guidance.
4. What happens if I sell my property soon after buying it?
   If you sell within five years, you’ll usually have to repay some or all of the discount you received. The amount decreases the longer you live there after purchasing.
5. Can housing association tenants use Right to Buy?
   Some may have a preserved Right to Buy or a Right to Acquire, depending on their circumstances. Check with your housing association and see the Right to Acquire rules for Northern Ireland.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NIHE: Right to Buy Guidance – Official advice and forms.
• Lands Tribunal for Northern Ireland – Appeal processes for refusals or valuation disputes.
• NIHE Local Housing Offices – Find your nearest NIHE office for support.
• NI Direct: Buying Your Social Home – Northern Ireland government information and advice links.

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1. Housing (Northern Ireland) Order 1983

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