The rehousing journey
There are a few steps involved before you officially become a tenant. Here's how the journey usually looks:
- Complete and submit the online application form.
- You will be required to provide the relevant id documents.
- Your application is validated, and you are placed in the appropriate band.
- You begin to bid for available properties.
- If you are successful, we will contact you to make the offer.
- You arrange to view the property.
- You accept the offer and sign for tenancy.
- Your housing application is closed.
Viewing a property
If you're offered a home, we’ll arrange for you to view it with an Officer. The home will be empty and essential repairs will have been completed.
You’ll need to bring the following documents to your viewing:
- photo identification for all the people moving with you (over age 16)
- proof of your current address for all the people moving with you (over age 16)
- proof of child benefit (if applicable)
- immigration documentation (if relevant)
- your most recent tenancy agreement if you rent from another council or housing association
You’ll also complete an affordability check during this appointment to ensure the tenancy is financially manageable for you.
When we arrange the viewing of the property, we will make sure that you know what documents you need to bring to the appointment.
Signing your tenancy agreement
At your appointment, the Officer will:
- go through the tenancy agreement with you
- explain your responsibilities as a tenant
- answer any questions about your home or tenancy
- give you a You and Your Home booklet, which outlines your rights and responsibilities and ours as your landlord
- talk you through key things like how to report repairs and how to get the heating and hot water working
As this is a legal document, we’ll make sure you understand the agreement before you sign. The appointment may take some time, so please allow for this.
Once you sign for your new home, your housing register application will be closed and you won’t be able to apply again for two years.
Paying your rent
You can pay your rent weekly, fortnightly or monthly by direct debit which is a regular payment taken from your bank account.
Your Neighbourhood Officer will tell you when your first payment is due.
Help with paying your rent
We know that rising living costs have made things harder for many people. If you're struggling to pay your rent, there are ways we can help.
We can:
- offer benefits advice to help you maximise your income
- help you apply for grants or discretionary payments
- set up a flexible repayment plan if you're in arrears
- refer you to other agencies for debt support
We’ll work with you to find a solution that suits your situation.