December 2023

31 Tricks & Tips To Get A Council House In December 2023

In this article, we have set out 31 tips that you can use to try and get a council house.

You can listen to an audio recording of this page below.

1 – Research Your Local Council

Before applying for a council house, it is essential to investigate your local council and determine its services. Check to see whether the council has any unique housing programmes or rules that could expedite your application for a council home.

Identify the areas and demographics that are most in need of housing, so you can better understand the needs of your local council and how best to tailor your application.

2 – Act Quickly When You Find A Property

Once you discover a home that suits your criteria, you should act quickly and apply as soon as possible.

The earlier you submit your application, the higher the chance it will be considered.

3 – Make Sure All Forms Are Filled Out Accurately

Ensure that all forms are accurately and thoroughly filled out. This will prevent any problems from occurring during the processing of your application, which could cause a delay in the future.

Pay attention to detail and double-check that all the information is correct before submitting it.

4 – Be Clear About Your Needs

Clarify your demands and the sort of dwelling that best fits them when applying for a council house. This will facilitate the local government’s processing of your application.

Be sure to include all relevant information, such as the size of your family, job status, and any special needs that may require a specific type of housing.

5 – Check For Waiting Lists

Check with your local government before beginning your home search to see whether there is a waiting list in place. If so, add your name as soon as possible to increase your chances of acceptance when a suitable property becomes available.

Be sure to inquire about the length of the waiting list and any possible ways to expedite your application’s processing.

6 – Show Financial Responsibility

Before deciding whether to grant you residence, the local government will evaluate your financial status, to ensure that all of your payments are paid on time and that you have no outstanding obligations.

Show financial responsibility and ensure you can manage the payments for a council-owned home.

7 – Look For Private Rental Options

If you’re having difficulty obtaining a council property, consider private rental options such as rent-to-own or house sharing. These are frequently more reasonable and might give you a place to stay while your council application is being processed.

Before signing a contract, research any potential landlord or roommate carefully.

8 – Prepare Your Documents

Before applying for a council house, ensure that you have all of the essential documentation, including evidence of income, bank statements, and any other paperwork requested by the local government. These documents will expedite the procedure and make things go much more smoothly.

Include any information that might be useful in validating your application, such as references, letters of recommendation, or proof of employment.

9 – Object to Decisions You Disagree With

If you disagree with a local authority’s decision on your housing application, do not be afraid to appeal the decision if you believe it to be incorrect.

You could have the option to request a meeting with the local council or appeal directly to a designated tribunal.

10 – Contact Local Charities and Support Organisations

There are numerous organisations and support groups in the United Kingdom that may aid persons seeking accommodation, so be sure to contact them if you need advice or assistance.

These organisations are experienced in dealing with different types of housing situations, and their support may be invaluable in helping you secure the home that meets your needs.

11 – Consider Relocating To A New Area

If no properties are available in your local area, you may consider relocating to an area with more alternatives. This is particularly useful if you have family or friends living elsewhere who can assist you in settling in.

Additionally, some locations may have less stringent criteria for council housing applications, which could help increase your chances of being accepted.

12 – Network

Ask around and network with others who may be able to assist you in locating a property or provide you with advice on how to conduct your search. The power of word-of-mouth should not be underestimated; therefore, you should not be hesitant to utilise it.

In addition to friends and family, many churches, charities, and other organisations can provide valuable resources and support.

"Even if you do not match the criteria for priority housing, many possibilities are still available, so don't lose faith! With some perseverance and persistence."

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13 – Consider Shared Ownership Opportunities

If you cannot afford to purchase a home altogether, investigate shared ownership programmes that allow you to purchase a portion of a home while renting the other portion from the local government.

These programmes are designed to assist individuals who cannot afford the full cost of a home, and they can be an excellent way to get your foot on the housing ladder.

14 – Consider Alternative Housing Alternatives

Don’t limit your housing search to traditional council housing. Other alternatives are available, such as sheltered housing for the elderly and supported housing for those with impairments

These housing types might be more suitable for your particular lifestyle and needs, so be sure to investigate them before applying for council housing.

15 – Seek Professional Advice

Consult a housing expert or the Citizens Advice Bureau if you have difficulty finding a council dwelling or have any other questions regarding the application process.

These professionals can provide invaluable guidance and advice to those seeking council housing, so utilise their expertise if you need assistance.

16 – Remain Patient

The process of obtaining a council house can be time-consuming and unpleasant. Therefore,, be patient and do not give up.

Even though you may face countless rejections and dead ends, stay positive and continue to search for the right home.

17 – Follow Up On Application Submissions

Follow up often on your application for a property since this will demonstrate to the local authorities that you are serious about being accepted and may speed up the decision-making process.

You should consider checking with the local council monthly to ensure that your application is being processed. This will show the local authority that you are serious about being accepted and may speed up decision making.

18 – Consider Downsizing

If your present home is too large for your requirements, consider reducing to facilitate the process of locating a council house, as smaller homes are typically in higher demand.

Before applying for a house, ensure that you are qualified by meeting the local authority’s conditions, such as having a specific income level or living in the region for at least five years.

20 – Be Prepared For Rejection

Even if you match all the standards, there is no guarantee that you will be admitted into a council house. Therefore it is crucial to be prepared for rejection and have alternative plans in place.

Consider other forms of housing such as renting, shared ownership or temporary accommodation until you can find a suitable council house.

21 – Get To Know Your Local Area

This will give you a better idea of what you want and what you may expect.

Visit the local area where you intend to live and explore it thoroughly. Understand the market in that region so that you can make an informed decision.

22 – Be Flexible With Your Requirements

If you’re having trouble finding a property that fulfils all of your criteria, try being flexible and open-minded about specific characteristics, such as the property’s size or location. This will give you a better chance of finding an appropriate property.

23 – Check Online Listings Regularly

Most councils publish their properties on websites such as Rightmove and Zoopla, so keep an eye out for fresh listings and act swiftly if something catches your attention.

Familiarise yourself with the local council’s housing policies to ensure that you are fully prepared when applying for a council house.

24 – Attend Viewings

When a house becomes available, if you can attend the viewing, you will demonstrate to the local government that you are serious about being approved, which may boost your chances of being accepted.

Also, you can assess the property and ensure it meets your needs. Be aware of any potential repairs or renovations required before signing any documentation.

25 – Get On The Waiting List

If there are no available properties, sign up for a waiting list so you may be notified when something becomes available, as this is often more efficient than constantly searching internet listings.

Moreover, if you are on a housing list, the local council may prioritise those who have waited for the longest.

26 – Consider Care Home Accommodation

For older persons or those with disabilities who require more care and support than what would be available in a regular council house, try looking into care home housing which is expressly created for these folks.

Care homes are generally staffed 24 hours a day and provide medical, emotional and physical support and other services. They may be more suited to individuals who require an extra level of care.

27 – Look Into Rent To Buy Schemes

If you cannot save enough money for a down payment or mortgage, investigate rent-to-own programmes that allow you to rent the home at a subsidised cost before purchasing it all together when your circumstances improve.

These schemes usually require low or no money down, so they can be a great way to get on the property ladder.

28 – Utilise Your Connections

If you know someone who works in the housing industry, don’t hesitate to utilise your connections and ask for assistance locating a council house.

They may have access to inside information that can give you a better chance of finding a property quickly. In addition, they may be able to provide advice on navigating the process.

29 – Consider Private Rented Accommodation

Private rented accommodation is sometimes less expensive than traditional council dwellings, so if this is an option for you, consider it when searching for a new place to live.

If you cannot purchase a home, shared ownership schemes allow you to purchase a portion of the home while paying rent on the balance, making it more affordable over time.

30 – Look Into Social Housing

If you are still having problems finding a council property, don’t hesitate to contact your local council for extra advice and information; they may be able to provide you with additional resources or support.

Finding a council house can be tough, but with the right research, knowledge and determination, you can increase your chances of success.

Social housing associations can also provide you with the support that you need. You can approach your local housing association for information on where you could find a home.

31 – Contact Your Local Council

Following these ideas and tactics can boost your chances of locating a council dwelling swiftly.

Utilising all available resources, including online listings, local authorities, and rental possibilities, will make the entire process easier and less stressful.

Who Gets Higher Priority Council Housing?

Higher Priority is typically given to those with the greatest need when determining who is eligible for a council dwelling.

Consequently, individuals in emergency situations, such as the homeless, pregnant women, and victims of domestic violence, may be given extra priority over other applications. Additionally, senior citizens and individuals with impairments may receive priority housing.

It is crucial to remember that each local government has its own standards for choosing who receives extra priority status. If you need more information, contact your local council directly.

Even if you do not match the criteria for priority housing, many possibilities are still available, so don’t lose faith! With some perseverance and persistence.

Meet the author

Jane Parkinson

Jane is one of our primary content writers and specialises in elder care. She has a degree in English language and literature from Manchester University and has been writing and reviewing products for a number of years.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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