Your location: Finding a place to live
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland
Whether you need emergency housing or want to buy your own place, it's important to find somewhere that suits your needs. You also need to understand the rights each option would give you.
You need to be realistic about what you can afford and what is available. You may not find what you want within your budget. If you need help finding somewhere, contact an adviser or download our free guide.
Emergency housing
Need a place for tonight? Find out about different types of emergency housing and how to access them. Read more 
Leaving home
If you're thinking of leaving your home make sure you're fully prepared before you go. Read more
Lodging schemes
A local lodgings scheme may be able to put you in contact with someone who is willing to rent out a spare room. Read more
Foyers for young people
Information on foyers, where young people can get housing and help with education, training and finding work. Read more
Renting privately
What to consider when deciding whether to rent privately. Gives information about what it will cost and explains how to find a place. Read more
Council waiting lists
Find out who is eligible for council housing, how to apply and how councils decide who should be housed first. Read more
Housing associations
If you want to get a housing association place, you will have to apply to go on a waiting list. Read more
Transfers and exchanges
Council and housing association tenants may be able to apply for a transfer within their current landlord’s area, or a mutual exchange to anywhere in the UK. Read more
Housing co-operatives
Basic information about housing co-ops and how to get a place in one. Read more
Home ownership
If you are thinking of buying your own home, particularly if it's for the first time, you need to consider your options carefully. Read more
Mobile homes
This section explains your rights if you own or rent a mobile home such as a caravan or a park home, or you rent a pitch to place it on. Read more
Student housing
Gives details of housing options such as halls of residence and other specialist student housing. Read more
Housing with support
Sometimes a home is not enough. Find out how support and/or adaptations could help you stay independent. Read more
Squatting
Squatting isn't illegal but you can be evicted very easily and it doesn't give you any security. You can also be arrested in some circumstances. Read more
