Northern Ireland housing statistics show rising waiting lists and low starts as crisis deepens

The Chartered Institute of Housing Northern Ireland has expressed concern in response to the latest Northern Ireland Housing Bulletin (April–June 2025). While the figures on starts and completions reflect some positive momentum, delivery remains far short of what is needed to meet Northern Ireland’s housing demand.

During the quarter ending 30 June 2025:

• Starts and completions: 2,248 new dwellings started, up from 30 per cent on the last quarter, and 1,475 completions, up from eight per cent on the last quarter
• Households waiting for a home: 49,129 households on the waiting list, up one per cent on the last quarter
• Households in housing stress: 37,939 in housing stress, up one per cent on the last quarter
• Social housing allocations: The total number of households allocated a new social home reached 6,173, down from 8,843 on the last quarter. 

Julie Steele, engagement and external affairs manager at CIH Northern Ireland, said: “The latest statistics highlight a worrying reality. Even with some growth in new starts and completions, we are still not building nearly enough homes. Rising waiting lists and continued reliance on temporary accommodation show the real human cost of underinvestment. Without urgent action to restore funding and provide long-term certainty, the housing crisis in Northern Ireland will only worsen.”

She added: “While housing providers are working hard to deliver against challenging targets, the core issue remains a lack of sustained investment and long-term policy direction. The positive momentum seen in delivery must be matched by ambition, leadership, and resources if Northern Ireland is to meet its housing need and ensure that every household can access a safe, affordable home.”