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Apply to join the housing register

You can apply to join a council's housing register, even if you do not live in the area. However, councils are allowed to give people who already live in the area priority so contact the housing department of the relevant council.

The following links will let you enter details of where you live and then take you to your local authority website where you can find out more.

• Apply for a council home (opens new window)
• Find out about applying for a council home (opens new window)

What happens next

On receipt of your application, your council will acknowledge it and your needs will be assessed in accordance with the council's points scheme. These points schemes vary from district to district, but details are readily available on request.

If you have special health or care needs, these will be assessed and taken into account in the priority given to your application. This may involve the council liaising with social services to ensure that your specific needs are catered for, if at all possible.

• Sheltered housing (disabled people section)

How long will I have to wait?

Different areas vary in popularity and in the availability of the type of housing you may be looking for. The council will evaluate your needs from your application form and you will be advised of the number of points your application has been given. You will then be told how long you can expect to wait before you are re-housed by the council.

Once your application reaches the top of the list, you will be offered the next appropriate dwelling in your area of choice. You will have a set number of days to decide whether you want to accept the offer. If you refuse the offer, you may be offered further accommodation later, but policies vary from council to council.

Some councils have a limited number of properties and demand currently exceeds supply. Therefore, only those in the greatest need are likely to be assisted.

What if I come from the area but have temporarily moved away?

You can be still be classed as a council resident if you are temporarily living outside your usual place of residence. You may be serving in HM Forces, a student studying away, working away on a fixed term contract of less than two years, or serving a prison sentence. You will need to speak to the housing advice department to check if you are still classed as a resident.