Temporary Council Housing Support for Renters in England

If you're facing homelessness or have recently been evicted in England, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, local councils in England may be able to provide temporary accommodation if you meet certain conditions. This step-by-step guide explains how council temporary housing works, what support to expect, and the legal process for renters needing urgent housing help.

Who Can Get Temporary Housing from the Council?

Councils in England have a legal duty to help certain people who are homeless or about to lose their home. If you qualify, the council may have to provide you and your household with temporary accommodation while they look into your situation or until longer-term housing is arranged.

• You are legally homeless (for example, you've been evicted, it isn’t reasonable to stay where you are, or your home is unsafe)
• Your household is eligible for public funds
• You are in priority need (such as having children, being pregnant, or being vulnerable due to age or illness)
• You did not become homeless intentionally

To get help, you must apply to your local council’s housing department. They will carry out a homelessness assessment under the Housing Act 1996 (Part VII)¹.

How Does Council Temporary Accommodation Work?

If you meet the above conditions, the council may provide temporary accommodation. This could be:

• A self-contained flat or house
• Bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodation
• Hostels or supported housing

The type and location of temporary housing can vary. Priority is given to keeping families close to their support networks where possible, but space and availability are sometimes limited. Temporary accommodation lasts until the council makes a decision about your case, or until you are offered suitable long-term housing.

Applying for Homeless Assistance: Official Forms

When you apply for help as someone threatened with homelessness, you'll need to fill out your council's homelessness application form. Forms can differ by council, but all must request enough information to assess your situation.

• Homelessness application (No official form number): You'll usually complete this online or in person with the council’s housing team. For example, the Find your local council tool helps you start the process online.
• Personalised Housing Plan: After your initial application and assessment, the council will create a plan with steps for you and them to take. They must provide this in writing (usually paper or email). Learn more about the plan on the official homelessness help from council guidance.

If you are unhappy with your council’s decision about your application, you can request a formal review. You may use a Homelessness review request (again, no universal number—each council has its own process). For guidance, visit how to ask for a review on GOV.UK.

How to Apply for Temporary Housing: Step-by-Step

• Contact your local council as soon as possible through their housing department.
• Explain your situation clearly—if you’ve been evicted or have nowhere to stay tonight, let them know.
• Complete the homelessness application (online, by phone, or in person).
• Provide identification and documents (like tenancy agreements, eviction notices, proof of children, etc.)
• Attend an assessment interview. The council will ask questions and decide if they must help.
• If you have nowhere to stay, request emergency or interim accommodation while your case is being assessed.

What If the Council Refuses Temporary Accommodation?

If the council says you are not eligible or refuses to provide temporary housing, you have a legal right to request a review of their decision. Ask for the decision and reasons in writing. You usually have 21 days to request a review.

• Use the council's homelessness decision review process
• If needed, seek advice from an independent advocacy group or Civil Legal Advice

Your Legal Rights and the Law

The key law for homelessness support in England is Part VII of the Housing Act 1996¹, as amended by the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017². You can learn more about council duties on the official GOV.UK homelessness advice page.

If disputes arise (e.g., about your eligibility or the suitability of accommodation provided), these can be taken to the Housing Ombudsman Service or ultimately to the County Court for appeals.

FAQs: Temporary Housing and Council Support in England

1. What documents do I need when applying for council temporary housing?
   You'll usually need photo ID, proof of your tenancy or eviction notice, proof of children or pregnancy (if applicable), and any benefits information.
2. Can I refuse the council's temporary accommodation offer?
   You can refuse, but be careful: if the council believes the offer was suitable and you refused, they may not have to offer you more help. Discuss concerns before refusing.
3. How long can I stay in temporary accommodation?
   It depends—some people stay days or weeks, others for months, until the council can offer suitable longer-term housing or fully decides your case.
4. Does temporary accommodation mean I’ll get a council house?
   Not necessarily. Temporary accommodation is urgent, short-term help. You may still need to bid for social housing or find a private rental.
5. What should I do if I am unhappy with the accommodation provided?
   Raise concerns with the council housing officer first. If you believe it is unsuitable, you can formally ask for a review of the decision (within 21 days).

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Homelessness help from your council (GOV.UK)
• Find your local council to apply for support
• Civil Legal Advice (legal aid and guidance)
• Housing Ombudsman Service
• Applying for council or housing association homes (GOV.UK)

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1. Housing Act 1996, Part VII (Homelessness)
2. Homelessness Reduction Act 2017

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