Council waiting lists

This content applies to England only. Why is this important?

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland

This section explains who is eligible for council housing, how to apply and how the council decides who to house first. In most areas, these rules also apply to people applying for a housing association or housing co-op home in the area, and to existing council tenants who want a transfer.

If you need housing immediately (for example, if your current home is unsafe or you are homeless), the council may have a duty to help you immediately. You should tell them that you want to apply as homeless as well as applying for a permanent home. If they say you can't do this, get advice immediately.

Who is eligible to apply

Councils can only house people who are eligible. Most people who live in the UK permanently are eligible, but there are exceptions. Read more 

How to apply for council housing

Find out what information you should include, and what happens to your application. Read more 

Who gets priority

Council waiting lists don't work on a 'first come, first served' basis. Certain groups of people must always be given priority. Read more 

Getting an offer

Explains how offers are made and what you can do if you don't think the accommodation that the council is offering you is suitable. Read more 

Challenging allocation decisions

Not happy with a decision that has been made about your application for a council or housing association home? You may be able to take action. Read more