Can You Work and Qualify for Social Housing in Scotland?

Many renters wonder if having a job will affect their chances of getting, or keeping, social housing in Scotland. Social housing, provided by councils and housing associations, is designed to support people in housing need – including those who are working but on low or moderate incomes.

Do You Need to Be Unemployed to Get Social Housing?

No, you do not need to be unemployed to apply for or live in social housing in Scotland. Both the Scottish Government and local councils recognise that working people can still struggle to afford private rents.

• Your employment status is not a barrier to applying for social housing.
• Housing need is assessed based on your income, current housing situation, health, or other circumstances.
• Many social tenants work either full or part-time.

How Is Eligibility for Social Housing Assessed?

When you apply for social housing, landlords use a points-based or group system to prioritise applicants most in need. Key factors include:

• Your income and whether you can afford private renting
• Homelessness or risk of homelessness
• Living in overcrowded or unsuitable housing
• Health or disability needs

Your earnings are considered, but having a job does not prevent you from being eligible. Some higher earners may find it harder to secure a social tenancy if their income is well above local thresholds, but this is rare.

If You Get a Job While Living in Social Housing

If your circumstances change after moving in, such as gaining employment or earning more, you do not automatically lose your social housing tenancy. Scottish tenancy law protects renters from eviction on the basis of getting a job alone.

If your income increases, your rent or benefit entitlement might change, but your right to live in your home remains secure as long as you follow the terms of your tenancy agreement.

How It May Affect Your Rent and Benefits

• Rent: Social rents are typically lower than market rents and usually remain affordable even if your income rises. Some housing associations use an income-based rent calculation. Always check your rent agreement.

• Benefits: Employment income may affect any Housing Benefit or Universal Credit you receive for housing costs. You must report any change in your income to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Applying for Social Housing: Key Forms and Action Steps

The main steps and forms you may encounter as a renter in Scotland:

• Social housing application forms (No standard number):
  • Available from your local council or housing association
  • Example: If you live in Glasgow, you’d apply through the Glasgow City Council housing application portal.
• Change of circumstances form (No standard number):
  • Used to notify your landlord and/or council if your circumstances or household details change after applying or moving in.
  • Example: If you start full-time work, you should update your local council or housing association using their “change in circumstances” form – e.g., on the Edinburgh Council website.
• Housing Benefit/Universal Credit change forms:
  • If you claim help with rent, report any change in income promptly using the guidance linked on the GOV.UK Report a change of circumstances page.

Tenancy Law and Tribunal Information in Scotland

Social housing tenancies are mainly governed by the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001, which sets the rules for secure tenancies and your rights as a renter.

Disagreements about social housing tenancies are handled by the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).

FAQ: Working and Social Housing in Scotland

1. Can I keep my social housing if I start working full time?
   Yes, you can keep your tenancy if you start full-time work. Your eligibility for social housing does not end just because you gain employment, but any benefits you receive may be adjusted.
2. Will my rent increase if I earn more?
   Most social housing rents are set below private market rates. Your rent may gradually adjust, especially with housing associations that consider income bands, but it will still follow regulatory limits. Always check with your landlord for their rent-setting policy.
3. Do I need to tell my council or landlord if my income changes?
   Yes. You must inform your landlord and, if receiving rent support, update your council or DWP about any changes to your income or household. This ensures you are paying the correct rent and claiming the right benefit amount.
4. Can working people get social housing priority?
   Priority is based on need, not employment status. If your income is low and your housing situation is difficult, you may still be a high-priority applicant even if you are working.
5. Who can I contact for advice about my rights as a social tenant?
   You can speak with your local council, a housing association, or access advice from Citizens Advice Scotland.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• You can work and still apply for or keep social housing in Scotland.
• Your income may affect rent and benefit support but does not end your tenancy.
• Always notify your landlord or council about changes in income or household situation.

In summary, social housing is for anyone in housing need – including many people who work. The process is designed to be fair, and you have secure rights under Scottish law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Scottish Government: Social Housing Information
• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
• Citizens Advice Scotland: Housing Rights
• Report Benefit Changes to DWP (GOV.UK)
• Apply for Social Housing via mygov.scot

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1. Housing (Scotland) Act 2001
2. Scottish Government: Social Housing Policy
3. First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
4. GOV.UK: Report a change of circumstances for benefits

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