Applying for Social Housing in England: A Step-By-Step Guide

Social housing provides affordable rental homes for people who need them most. In England, council housing and housing association properties are offered to eligible individuals and families, helping ensure decent living standards. Securing a social home can be highly competitive, so understanding the process, requirements, and legal rights is essential for renters facing issues like high rents, eviction, or inadequate housing. This guide explains eligibility, application steps, key forms, and useful resources in plain language.

Who Can Apply for Social Housing in England?

The local council in your area is responsible for allocating social housing. You must join the local housing register to be considered. Councils prioritise people based on their level of housing need.

  • Eligibility criteria often include:
    • Being aged 18 or over (some councils accept applications from age 16)
    • Having a right to reside in the UK
    • Living or working in the local area (local connection)
    • Being in housing need (examples: at risk of homelessness, living in overcrowded or unsuitable accommodation, fleeing domestic abuse)
  • Check your council’s requirements and apply online

If you are unsure about your eligibility, you can contact your council’s housing department for a personalised assessment.

How to Join Your Local Housing Register

Each council manages its own housing register. This is the first step towards being offered a social home.

  • Find your local council via the official council finder.
  • Apply online or request a paper application from the council’s housing team.

What Information Will I Need?

  • Proof of identity (passport, driving licence)
  • Evidence of your right to reside in the UK (residence permit, settled status)
  • Details about your current home and why you need to move
  • Information about anyone else moving with you
  • Evidence of income and savings

Accurate information will help speed up your application and ensure you receive the correct priority.

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How Social Housing is Allocated

Councils use a prioritisation system (called ‘banding’ or a points system) to decide who gets offered homes. Priority is usually given if:

  • You are homeless or at risk of homelessness
  • You live in unsafe or unsuitable housing
  • You have specific medical or welfare needs

If offered a property, you’ll be contacted by the council or housing association directly. Some areas operate a ‘choice-based lettings’ system, letting you bid on available properties once accepted onto the register.

Official Forms and Important Documentation

Common Forms Used in Social Housing Applications

  • Council Housing Application Form (no universal number):
    • When it’s used: To join your local housing register and be considered for a home.
    • Where to find it: Varies by council—visit your local council housing website to access the correct form.
    • Example: If you currently rent privately but are facing eviction, completing this application is the first step to seeking council or housing association accommodation.
  • Homelessness Application (Duty to Refer):
    • When it’s used: If you are homeless or at risk, and a public body (like the NHS or Jobcentre Plus) must refer you for emergency support.
    • Where to find it: Details available on the Homelessness Guidance page.
    • Example: You’ve been told to leave your rented home and have nowhere else to go; Jobcentre staff could submit a Duty to Refer on your behalf.

You should always complete the local council’s official application process first. After applying, provide any requested documents swiftly to avoid delays.

Tip: Keep copies of all paperwork and communication with the council for your records and peace of mind.

What to Expect After Applying

The council will assess your application and may contact you for more information or supporting evidence. You’ll receive a letter telling you:

  • If your application has been accepted
  • Your ‘band’ or priority status
  • How to view or bid for properties (if choice-based lettings is used)

Waiting times vary greatly, so it’s a good idea to check your position regularly and update the council if your circumstances change.

What if I Disagree with a Decision?

If you believe your application or banding has not been handled correctly, you have the right to request a review. Most councils have a formal complaints and review process, detailed on their housing webpage.

Your Rights and Relevant Legislation

Social housing and council allocations in England are primarily governed by the Housing Act 19961 and the Homelessness Act 20022. These set out who councils must prioritise and your rights to review.

Housing complaints and disputes, including allocation and council decisions, can be escalated to the Housing Ombudsman Service, the independent tribunal for social housing in England.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I apply for social housing if I’m currently renting privately? Yes, you can apply if you meet your local council’s eligibility criteria and need more secure or affordable accommodation. Make sure to provide reasons for your application, such as a pending eviction or unaffordable rent.
  2. How long will I wait for an offer of social housing? Waiting times vary greatly based on your priority and local demand. Some may wait weeks, while high-demand areas can have multi-year queues.
  3. What evidence will I need for my social housing application? Typically, proof of identity, right to reside, income details, proof of current address, and documentation of special circumstances (such as medical needs).
  4. If I’m homeless or about to become homeless, what should I do? You should contact your local council immediately and request an urgent homelessness assessment. They are legally required to advise and assist you under homelessness legislation.
  5. Can I appeal if my application is refused? Yes, you can request a review of certain decisions—such as housing register refusal, banding level, or not being offered housing—by following your council’s formal complaints or review process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters


  1. Housing Act 1996
  2. Homelessness Act 2002
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights UK

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.