The council and its registered social landlord partners have created a common housing register for applicants who are eligible and qualify for social housing. There is a limited supply of social housing in the borough, with over 23,000 applications currently on the housing register.
Unfortunately, most who apply will have little or no chance of being offered a home as only 1 in 10 applicants have a chance of being made an offer. Even those applicants who qualify to be on the housing register and have high priority may have to wait a long time.
The following table provides the average wait times based on the priority and size of property you may need.
| Band 1 | Band 2 | Band 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | 2 years | 5 years | 11 years |
| 1 Bed | 3 years | 5 years | 6 years |
| 2 Beds | 4 years | 6 years | 6 years |
| 3 Beds | 6 years | 11 years | 2 years (based on 3 lets) |
| 4 Beds | 8 years | 13 years | No lets |
| 5+ Beds | 10 years | No lets | No lets |
Based on the actual lets for the financial year 2022/23.
Normally, you can join the housing register as long as you:
- are not subject to immigration control and have recourse to public funds
- are over 18 years of age
- have lived in the borough continuously for the last three years or in housing need
- are not guilty of bad behaviour
- do not have a sole or joint income of more than £85,000 per annum
- are not a homeowner
Apply to join the housing register
Everyone must apply online.
If you do not have access to a computer at home, our Idea Stores and libraries (opens in new tab) have free computer usage and internet access. You can also complete this application on your mobile phone.