What Documents to Bring for Housing Assistance in Scotland

If you’re facing homelessness or eviction in Scotland, knowing exactly what documents and information to bring when applying for housing help can make a stressful time less overwhelming. Councils in Scotland have a legal duty to assist people threatened with homelessness, and providing the right paperwork at your first appointment can help speed up your support.
This guide outlines the key items you should take, explains the relevant forms, and tells you where to get further help.

Essential Documents and Information for Your Appointment

Whether you are going to your local council’s homelessness service, a housing association, or support agency, you will be asked for evidence of your identity, circumstances, and housing situation. These documents help assess your eligibility and what type of housing support you can receive.

• Proof of identity – Passport, driving licence, birth certificate, or biometric residence permit
• Proof of income – Recent wage slips, benefit statements, letters from the DWP, Universal Credit statements
• Proof of address – Utility bills, tenancy agreement, bank or benefit letters with your address
• Notice to quit or eviction notice – If your landlord has asked you to leave
• Tenancy agreement or lease – To show your current housing arrangement
• Immigration documents (if relevant) – If you are not a British citizen
• National Insurance number
• Information about everyone moving with you – Including passports, medical documents if required, for children or vulnerable adults

Don’t worry if you cannot collect everything—bring what you have, and council staff can give advice if something is missing.

Key Official Forms and How They Are Used

Some important forms or documents you may see or be asked to provide when applying for housing help in Scotland include:

• Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement – The standard tenancy contract used by councils and housing associations. Having a copy can help prove your housing rights. See the Scottish Secure Tenancy Agreement template.
• Notice to Leave – If you rent with a Private Residential Tenancy, your landlord must give you this legal notice if they want you to move out. Keep a copy and bring it to your appointment. Guidance available from this official source on eviction and private tenants.
• Homelessness Application (Local Authority Form) – Each council has a homelessness application form (names and formats differ). It asks about your situation and is needed if you want formal help. For example, see Glasgow City Council's homelessness application. If unsure, contact your local council’s housing department directly.
• Proof of Benefit (e.g., Universal Credit Statement) – Obtain from your online Universal Credit account or DWP offices.

Always ask the housing officer if you need specific forms, as they may supply additional documents during your visit.

Where to Apply and What Happens Next

To apply for housing help or homelessness support, contact your local council’s homelessness service. All Scottish councils have legal duties under the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987 to assess your situation and provide support if you are homeless or at risk.¹

• Find contact details by entering your postcode at Find your local council.
• Some councils offer 24-hour emergency numbers.
• You can apply in person, by phone, or online, depending on the council.

After your application, a housing officer will talk you through next steps. If you disagree with a decision, you may appeal through the council’s review process or apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber), which deals with private tenancy disputes and evictions.

Summary of Main Steps to Apply for Housing Help

This process can feel intimidating, but councils are there to assist. Here’s a simple checklist:

• Collect as many documents as possible (ID, proof of income, notices, tenancy agreement)
• Contact your council’s homelessness department—by phone, in person or online
• Complete any required application forms and provide supporting evidence
• Keep copies of everything
• Ask questions if you are unsure at any step

1. What if I can't provide all the documents listed?
   Try to bring what you can. Councils must not refuse to help if you are genuinely homeless or at risk. Staff may help you obtain missing paperwork or accept other evidence.
2. Can someone else go with me to the appointment?
   Yes. You can usually bring a support worker, friend, or advocate if that makes you feel more comfortable. Let the council know in advance if you need translation or accessibility support.
3. Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?
   Most councils offer walk-in services or phone appointments for urgent cases, but check your local council website for details and operating hours.
4. Am I eligible for support if I have no recourse to public funds?
   Some people with immigration restrictions may have limited eligibility. Always ask—councils will assess your situation and advise you on available options.
5. What happens after I submit my application?
   A housing officer will assess your needs and the urgency. You may be offered temporary accommodation while your case is reviewed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Scottish Government Homelessness Advice
• Citizens Advice Scotland - Housing Help
• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
• Scottish Housing Regulator - Information for Tenants
• Find Your Local Council

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1. Housing (Scotland) Act 1987

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