Recent Northern Ireland Housing Statistics 2024–25 show that construction of new homes is increasing, but demand for social housing continues to outstrip supply.

Overall housing starts and completions across all tenures rose to 6,125, up from 5,411 the previous year, reflecting growth in the housing construction sector. In the social housing sector specifically, 1,504 new homes were started in 2024–25, meeting the annual target. However, this still falls short of the more than 2,200 homes needed annually to meet demand.

The statistics also highlight ongoing pressures on housing services. The social housing waiting list has risen to 49,083 households, a four-per-cent increase, while the number of households experiencing housing stress has grown by six per cent to 37,635. Homelessness figures have shown a reduction, with 10,855 households accepted as homeless, down six per cent from the previous year.

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Commenting on the statistics, Justin Cartwright, national director of Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Northern Ireland, said: "The quality of our homes is fundamental to our quality of life. The reduction in homelessness and the increase in overall housing starts are positive signs, and we commend the hard work of everyone involved. We are encouraged that we met our target for new social housing starts, but this is a temporary and insufficient solution to a long-term problem.

"The significant and sustained increase in the social housing waiting list and housing stress is a moral responsibility we cannot ignore. It is a sign that our current system is not meeting the basic needs of a growing number of people."

He added: "The housing crisis is not an unsolvable problem. It is a direct result of under-investment in new homes and supporting infrastructure. We must move beyond short-term targets and commit to funding a long-term approach that recognises housing as a foundation for health and wellbeing.

"We urge the NI Executive and relevant departments to review capital funding, streamline planning processes, and invest in vital infrastructure to ensure everyone in Northern Ireland has a safe, affordable and quality home to call their own. This is a problem we can and must fix."

For more information, contact Justin Cartwright at [email protected].