Minister confirms social landlords will not evict for Covid-19 related arrears 

Minister Deirdre Hargey has confirmed that social housing tenants will not face eviction over rent debt caused by Covid-19. 

At the beginning of the pandemic, the NI Housing Executive (NIHE) and housing associations agreed not to evict tenants whose rent problems resulted from the financial impacts of Covid-19. This arrangement will now continue until 4 May 2022. Notice extensions for private tenants also continue until 4 May 2022.  

Pandemic continues to create very challenging circumstances 

Minister Hargey offered thanks to social landlords for their support for the “no-eviction” approach during the pandemic. She said “I want to reassure our social tenants that they will not face losing their home as a result of Covid-19-related arrears.” 

The Minister went on to say that it is premature to end the agreement to refrain from evicting tenants who are financially affected by Covid-19 at this time.  

Getting help with eviction 

Advisers at Housing Rights have been helping social tenants with eviction cases throughout the pandemic. These cases have been taken because of rent debt from before the pandemic or allegations of antisocial behaviour.  

Get advice immediately if your landlord tells you that they are taking you to court to evict you from your home. Contact our helpline for advice and support.