Informal housing refers to residential structures that are built without official approval or adherence to legal regulations. These homes often arise in urban areas where formal housing options are limited or unaffordable. Common examples include slums, shantytowns, and squatter settlements, where residents may lack access to basic services like water, sanitation, and electricity. Typically, informal housing is characterized by its temporary nature and substandard construction materials. Residents often face challenges such as insecurity of tenure, meaning they can be evicted at any time. Despite these difficulties, informal housing can foster strong community ties and provide a sense of belonging for its inhabitants.