Quick answer: Apply to your council's housing register, give full evidence, check how your area allocates homes and keep your details current.
Waiting lists vary a lot by area, but the basic process is similar. This guide covers the steps and the paperwork to have ready.
Key points
- Apply through your local council's housing register. Many councils run it online.
- Have ID, proof of address history, income and benefit details, and any medical or support evidence ready.
- Some areas let you bid for homes, others make offers. Find out which your council uses.
- Councils can have rules about local connection and income, so check them before you apply.
- Apply to more than one route: your council register, housing associations and private rooms.
A tip
Applying for social housing does not stop you taking a private room in the meantime. You can stay on the list.
About the video
The video at the top of this page is by HelpWithHomelessness on YouTube. We picked it because its title is "How to Get a Council House! The easy way...". We did not make it, and rules and amounts change, so use the official links at the bottom of this page to check the details for your situation.
Sources and official help
This guide is general information, not legal or benefits advice. Rules and amounts change, so check the official links above or speak to Citizens Advice or your council before you make a decision.