Most council and housing association homes in Sheffield are let unfurnished. This means that they don’t come with essentials like beds, white goods or sofas.
Where to start
Furnishing a new home can be expensive. If you're thinking about moving into a council, housing association or unfurnished private rental property, it's a good idea to have a plan.
Start by asking yourself:
- what items you need
- where can you get them from
- how can you afford them
If you can, speak with family or friends to see if they can offer support, whether that’s help finding items or saving towards larger essentials.
Charities and low-cost options
There are several local charities in Sheffield that sell second-hand furniture and household goods at affordable prices. Many also offer delivery.
Here are a few to try:
You can also find great deals through:
- local selling groups (like Facebook Marketplace)
- Online auction sites
Furnished tenancies
In some cases, furnished council homes are available. Examples include when the tenants are over 60 or for people moving on from homelessness. These homes include essential items, but it’s important to know that:
- there’s a monthly charge (around £100)
- Housing Benefit may not cover this cost
Speak to your Neighbourhood Officer or Housing Advisor to check if this applies to you.