Temporary Accommodation: Your Rights When Rehoused in England

If you are rehoused into temporary accommodation in England, you have rights designed to protect your safety, health and access to a settled home. This guide explains what temporary accommodation means, when a council or landlord must offer it, how long you can expect to stay, and what makes a placement unsuitable. It also lists official forms you may need, the tribunal that can decide housing disputes, and practical steps to challenge poor conditions or prevent unlawful eviction. The language avoids legal jargon and focuses on simple actions: keep records, meet deadlines, request repairs, and seek advice early. Use this page to understand your options and the official routes available if you need to appeal or request a move.

What temporary accommodation means

Temporary accommodation is intended as short-term housing while a long-term solution is arranged. It can be a council-owned property, a private-sector leased unit or bed-and-breakfast style housing depending on availability.

When a council or landlord must provide it

Councils have duties under homelessness law to provide temporary accommodation when someone is homeless and meets eligibility criteria. Landlords may use temporary rehousing in limited circumstances but must follow legal notice rules.

• If you are found to be homeless and eligible for help by the council, they must offer temporary accommodation.
• If you are threatened with homelessness within 56 days the council will consider prevention duties and may arrange short-term rehousing.
• If you are assessed as vulnerable, the council must take that into account when placing you.

Suitability, standards and repairs

Placement must be suitable for your household size, health needs and any disabilities. Suitable also means reasonable access to facilities, heating, clean water and safety measures. If the property is in disrepair the council or landlord should arrange repairs without undue delay.

• If essential repairs are needed, report them in writing and keep copies of your request and any responses.
• Privacy and security problems, such as insecure locks or unlawful entry, make an offer likely to be unsuitable.
• Safety hazards, severe damp or lack of heating can all justify asking for a different placement.

Official forms you may need

• Apply for homelessness help (council) - Use the GOV.UK page to start an application with your local council and find guidance for documentation and interviews. Start the homelessness application^[1].
• Form 6A - this is the "Notice seeking possession" used for some assured shorthold tenancies. If a landlord serves a Section 21 notice, check the form and timing carefully. You can view the official Form 6A and guidance on GOV.UK and use it to understand a landlords claim. Form 6A (Section 21)^[2].

If you need a legal hearing over rehousing or possession, the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) and local courts consider landlord-tenant and housing matters.

You can ask for a review of a homelessness decision from the council if you disagree, and you may take appeals to the tribunal or court depending on the issue.

Relevant legislation for residential tenancies includes the Housing Act 1988 and the Rent Act 1977, which set out many of the rights and notice rules in England and Wales.^{[4] [5]}

FAQ

Am I entitled to temporary accommodation?

You may be entitled if you are homeless, eligible for assistance and the council accepts they have a duty to help; this depends on your circumstances and any priority need.

How long will I stay in temporary accommodation?

Duration varies: it should be as short as reasonably possible while longer-term rehousing is found, but exact timing depends on local availability and your personal situation.

What can I do if the accommodation is unsuitable?

Raise the issues in writing with the council or landlord, request a review of any decision you disagree with, and gather evidence for tribunal or court if needed.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: take dated photos, keep repair requests and copies of letters and emails.
2. Contact your council housing options team and the landlord in writing to report problems and request a suitable alternative.
3. Request a formal review of any homelessness decision if you believe the council assessed you incorrectly.
4. If the issue is not resolved, prepare a case for the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or court with your evidence and follow the tribunals guidance.
5. If you are offered a settled home, check the terms carefully before moving and keep a copy of the agreement.

Key Takeaways

• Document all communication and repairs from the start.
• Ask for a review promptly if you disagree with a council decision.
• Report serious safety or security issues immediately and follow up in writing.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Apply for homelessness help
• [3] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
• [6] Check legal aid and free advice on GOV.UK

1. [1] GOV.UK - Apply for homelessness help
2. [2] GOV.UK - Form 6A (Section 21 notice)
3. [3] GOV.UK - First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
4. [4] Legislation.gov.uk - Housing Act 1988
5. [5] Legislation.gov.uk - Rent Act 1977
6. [6] GOV.UK - Check legal aid and free advice