What to Do If Refused Social Housing in England

If you’ve applied for social housing in England and have been refused, it’s understandable to feel frustrated or uncertain about your next steps. Knowing why your application was refused and how you can challenge that decision puts you in a stronger position to secure the housing you need. This guide explains what to do if your social housing application is refused, your rights under English law, and where to get further help.

Understanding Why Social Housing Applications Are Refused

Councils and housing associations in England have rules when assessing social housing applications. Reasons for refusal might include:

• Not meeting local connection criteria
• Insufficient evidence of housing need
• Being subject to immigration control
• Rent arrears or past anti-social behaviour

You have the right to ask for a detailed explanation of why your application was refused. Councils must follow the Housing Act 1996^[1] when handling social housing applications and refusals.

Your Right to Request a Review of the Decision

If you believe the refusal was incorrect or unfair, you can ask the council or housing association to review their decision. This process is known as a ‘statutory review.’

To do this, write to the housing department stating you’d like a review and why you think the decision should be reconsidered. Be clear and include any new evidence, such as letters from your doctor, proof of overcrowding, or updated financial information.

Common Steps in the Review Process

• Submit a written review request within the specified timeframe (usually 21 days).
• Attach supporting evidence to strengthen your case.
• The council or provider will reassess your application and may ask for additional information or hold an interview.
• You’ll receive a written decision explaining the outcome and their reasons.

If your review is unsuccessful, further options remain.

How to Appeal or Complain Further

If you are unsatisfied with the review outcome, you can:

• Make a formal complaint through the council or provider’s complaints procedure. Details should be available on their website.
• Contact the Housing Ombudsman Service if you believe the council or housing association didn’t follow correct procedure, or acted unfairly.
• As a last resort, consider judicial review via the administrative courts. You may wish to seek specialist advice before this step, as it can be complex and costly.

Official Forms and Tribunals

• Homelessness Application Form (also called 'Homelessness Duty Application')
  Used when you feel you should be rehoused as homeless or at risk of homelessness. Submit through your local council. Apply for council housing on GOV.UK.
• Housing Allocation Review Request (Form may be named differently by each council)
  Request a review of a housing decision within 21 days at your local council housing office or online portal. Ask for the 'allocation review' or 'review of decision' form. For example, see Birmingham City Council Review Guidance.
• Housing Ombudsman Complaint Form
  If the internal complaints process does not resolve the issue, use the Housing Ombudsman Complaint Form to escalate.

Tribunals in England do not currently handle social housing allocation appeals. Instead, the Housing Ombudsman Service oversees complaints about housing providers.

Keep copies of all correspondence and evidence sent to your council or housing provider—for your records and any future appeals.

Legislation Governing Social Housing Applications

Your rights to apply, request reviews, and challenge refusals are set out in the Housing Act 1996 (Part 6: Allocation of Housing Accommodation and Part 7: Homelessness)^[1]. Councils must follow this legislation and their published allocation schemes.

FAQ: Refusal of Social Housing in England

1. Can I reapply if I’ve been refused social housing?
   Yes, you can reapply, especially if your circumstances have changed—for example, if you have new medical needs, a change in household size, or different financial circumstances. Update your evidence and explain what’s new in your application.
2. How do I find out why my application was refused?
   You have the right to ask the council or provider for a written explanation. Contact the housing office directly and request the full reasons for your refusal in writing.
3. What if I’m at risk of homelessness after a refusal?
   If you’re facing urgent housing needs, make a homelessness application with your council. They must assess your situation and may have a duty to help you under the law.
4. What evidence can help in a social housing review?
   Useful evidence includes recent medical reports, proof of overcrowding, tenancy agreements, rent statements, and letters from support workers or social services.
5. Who can help me challenge a refusal or make an appeal?
   You can get free support from Citizens Advice, Shelter, or your local council’s tenant advice services. See the section below for links and contact details.

Conclusion: Key Steps If Refused Social Housing

• Always ask for written reasons for your refusal and keep copies for your records
• Request a review within 21 days and submit new or additional evidence
• If necessary, escalate the matter to the Housing Ombudsman after completing the internal complaints process

Remember, challenge procedures are in place to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Apply for housing with your local council or housing association (GOV.UK)
• Housing Ombudsman Service (handles complaints about housing providers in England)
• Citizens Advice: Housing Help
• Shelter England: Council Housing Applications Advice
• Homelessness Code of Guidance (GOV.UK)

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1. Housing Act 1996 – see Part 6 (allocation) and Part 7 (homelessness)

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