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Housing allocation - points system
Councils must ensure priority for social housing goes to those in the greatest need. Some councils do this by using a points system. Points are awarded according to the circumstances and level of housing need.
What are points?
The law states that in allocating housing 'reasonable preference' must be given to certain categories of persons. These categories are:
- people who are homeless
- people living in insanitary, overcrowded or unsatisfactory housing
- people who need to move on medical or welfare grounds
- people who need to move to a particular locality in the district of the authority, where failure to meet that need would cause hardship to themselves or to others
In addition, councils may give additional preference to people in the above categories who are considered to have more urgent housing needs. A points system must take these factors into account.
What other factors are taken into account?
Other factors which a points system may take into account could include:
- residency - do you live in the area where you are applying for housing?
- financial circumstances - are you on benefits or in paid employment
- tenancy record - for example, have you a good record or have you accrued rent arrears?
- time on register - you may gain extra points if you have been on the housing register for sometime
You can request a leaflet from your council that details how it allocates its housing points.
The points system is based on your present circumstances. If your requirements change, if you are expecting a child for example, you must contact your council as soon as possible. You will need to fill in a new application form as you may be reassessed.
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