What to expect at the housing options interview
A housing options interview is a meeting with your local council to assess your housing needs, discuss prevention and relief options, and set any short-term steps the council will take in Scotland. The interviewer will ask about your current tenancy, reasons you are at risk of homelessness, who lives with you, and your income and savings. They will explain possible outcomes, timescales and whether you may be eligible for temporary accommodation or referral to support services. Bringing clear evidence and asking for decisions in writing helps protect your rights as a renter.
Who will attend and why it matters
Typically a housing options officer from your local authority will lead the interview; you can bring a support worker, friend or adviser. The council needs accurate information to decide which duties apply under the law, including the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 and homelessness duties. If you are asked about specific dates or notices, give as much detail as you can so the council can record timelines correctly.
Common questions you will be asked
- What identification and address documents you have, such as passport, driving licence or council tax letters.
- Your rent history, including any arrears and payment records.
- Any notices or letters from your landlord, including notice to leave or repossession letters.
- Evidence of repairs or hazards (photos, emails, repair requests) that affect habitability.
- Dates and deadlines you have been given, such as when you were asked to leave or court hearing dates.
Documents and official forms to bring
Bring originals or copies of key documents so the officer can make a full assessment. Councils follow the Housing Options approach and guidance published by the Scottish Government when taking homelessness applications and carrying out interviews Scottish Government: Housing Options[1]. Relevant tenancy law is set out in the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 and related regulations Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016[2]. If your landlord gave you a formal "Notice to Leave" for a private tenancy, read the official guidance on that notice so you know the grounds and timescales Notice to Leave (private tenancy guidance)[3].
- Proof of identity and address (ID, benefit letters, bank statements).
- Rent records and receipts showing payments or arrears.
- Any formal notices from your landlord, tenancy agreement and correspondence.
- Photos or logs of repair issues and any communications requesting fixes.
After the interview: decisions and next steps
The council should record the interview outcome and tell you what they will do next and any decisions in writing. That letter will explain whether you are owed homelessness duties, whether temporary accommodation will be provided, and what prevention steps were agreed. If you disagree with the council's decision, ask about a review and the next appeal options.
FAQ
- What is a housing options interview?
- A meeting with your local council to assess needs and discuss housing options, timescales and prevention measures in Scotland.
- What documents should I bring?
- Bring ID, tenancy agreement, rent statements, notices from your landlord, proof of income and any evidence of repairs or threats to your home.
- Can I appeal the council's decision?
- If you disagree you can request a review and may apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for certain tenancy disputes.
How-To
- Gather key documents: ID, tenancy agreement, rent receipts, repair evidence and any notices from your landlord.
- Book and attend the housing options interview on time and bring a support person or adviser if needed.
- Ask for the council's decision in writing and check which duties, if any, the council is accepting.
- If you disagree, request an internal review and find tribunal application forms on the First-tier Tribunal website to appeal where appropriate.
Help and Support / Resources
- First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) - appeals and application information
- Scottish Government: Housing Options guidance and homelessness policy
- Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 (legislation)
