Securing a council house in the UK can be a complex process, especially for those unfamiliar with the bidding system. This article breaks down how the process works, who is eligible, and what factors influence your chances of success.
What Is a Council House?
Council houses, or social housing, are properties provided at a reduced rent by local councils or housing associations. They are designed to offer affordable accommodation to individuals and families in need. Demand for these homes often exceeds availability, making the application and bidding process competitive.
Who Can Apply for a Council House?
Not everyone is eligible for a council house. Local councils have specific criteria to determine who can join the housing register. Common eligibility requirements include:
- Having a local connection to the council area (e.g., living, working, or having family nearby)
- Being over the age of 18
- Demonstrating a need for housing (e.g., homelessness, overcrowding, or medical conditions requiring a specific type of home)
Some councils may also consider financial circumstances, such as income level and savings, to assess whether private renting or purchasing is a viable option for the applicant.
Understanding the Council Housing Register
Once deemed eligible, applicants are placed on the council housing register. This register, also called the waiting list, categorises individuals based on their level of housing need. Local councils often use a points-based or banding system to prioritise applicants.
Points-Based System
Under this system, points are awarded for specific circumstances, such as:
- Being homeless or at risk of homelessness
- Living in unsuitable or overcrowded housing
- Needing to move for medical or welfare reasons
- Having children or dependents
The more points you have, the higher your priority.
Banding System
Instead of points, some councils assign applicants to bands, such as:
- Band A: Urgent housing need (e.g., medical emergencies or domestic abuse victims)
- Band B: High housing need (e.g., severe overcrowding or risk of homelessness)
- Band C: Moderate housing need (e.g., unsuitable housing but not urgent)
- Band D: Low housing need (e.g., no pressing reason to move)
Applicants in higher bands receive priority when bidding on available properties.
What Is the Bidding Process?
The term “bidding” in the context of council housing does not involve financial offers. Instead, it refers to expressing interest in available properties. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Finding Available Properties
Councils or housing associations advertise available properties online, through local newspapers, or via housing portals. These advertisements provide key details, including:
- Location
- Size and type of property (e.g., flat, house, bungalow)
- Rent amount
- Eligibility criteria (e.g., age restrictions or family size)
Applicants can view these listings and decide which properties suit their needs.
Step 2: Placing a Bid
Bidding typically occurs through an online housing portal. Applicants log in to their account and “bid” on properties they are interested in. It’s important to note that bidding is not about offering money; it’s simply an expression of interest.
Each applicant is usually allowed a set number of bids per week, such as three. The number varies by council.
Step 3: Waiting for the Outcome
After the bidding period closes, the council reviews all bids and ranks them based on priority. Factors that influence the ranking include:
- Housing need (points or band)
- Local connection to the area
- Length of time on the housing register
The applicant with the highest priority is typically offered the property first.
Factors That Influence Success in Bidding
Several factors can improve your chances of securing a council house:
Housing Need
Applicants with urgent or high-priority needs are more likely to succeed in bidding. For example, a family living in severely overcrowded conditions may be prioritised over a single person in adequate housing.
Flexibility
Being open to different property types, locations, or areas can increase your chances. If you only bid on properties in highly sought-after areas, the competition may be tougher.
Length of Time on the Register
Some councils give higher priority to applicants who have been on the housing register for a long time, even if their housing need is moderate.
Local Connection
Applicants with a strong connection to the local area, such as long-term residents or workers, often receive priority over those without ties to the community.
What Happens If Your Bid Is Successful?
If your bid is successful, the council will contact you to offer the property. This offer is usually conditional on a final eligibility check. You may need to provide additional documents, such as proof of income, ID, or references.
After passing the checks, you’ll be invited to view the property. If you accept the offer, you’ll sign a tenancy agreement and move in. If you decline, you may have to wait for another suitable property to become available.
What If You Don’t Get a Property?
It’s not uncommon for bids to be unsuccessful, especially in areas with high demand. If this happens:
- Keep bidding: Persistence is key. Continue to bid on properties that match your needs.
- Update your circumstances: Inform the council of any changes, such as worsening health or overcrowding, as this may increase your priority.
- Consider alternative options: Explore housing association properties, private renting with housing benefit support, or shared ownership schemes.
Tips for Navigating the Council Housing Process
- Research your council’s policies: Each council has different rules and priorities. Familiarise yourself with their specific system.
- Use your bids wisely: Focus on properties that align with your needs and eligibility. Avoid bidding on properties you’re unlikely to get due to restrictions.
- Keep documents up to date: Ensure your housing register application and supporting documents reflect your current situation.
- Seek advice: Housing charities, such as Shelter, can offer guidance on the application and bidding process.
