Councils and housing associations decide who gets social housing using a priority system. You cannot skip the queue, but you can make sure yours is not held back by missing information.
Key points
- Check that you are registered on the council's housing register and that your details are correct.
- Tell the council when something changes, such as your health, income, who lives with you or your address.
- Send evidence of your need, such as medical letters, a support worker's letter or proof of overcrowding or poor conditions.
- Ask which priority group or band you are in and why. If you disagree, ask for a review.
- If your area uses bidding, bid regularly on homes that suit you, and respond quickly to offers.
A tip
Keep a copy of your application and every letter. It makes any challenge much easier.
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 Move Up the Council Housing List (6 Steps to Higher Priority)". 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.