Allocations for social housing

Most councils use a banding or points system to allocate housing

How social housing is allocated, who gets priority, and what you can do if you disagree with a decision.

Who can apply?

You can usually join the housing register if you have the right to live in the UK, are over 18, and meet the council’s local connection rules. Some people may not qualify if they have serious rent arrears or recent tenancy breaches.

How allocations work

Most councils use a banding or points system, with housing associations typically letting most homes to people nominated by the council. Priority is based on need, and within each band, those waiting longest are normally offered homes first.

Band 1

Emergency priority. Short-term, safe temporary housing while your homelessness case is assessed.

Band 2

High need (homelessness, medical needs, domestic abuse)

Band 3

Medium need (overcrowding or poor housing conditions)

Band 4

Low need

Band 5

No priority

Choice-Based Lettings (CBL)

Many councils advertise available homes online and allow you to ‘bid’ on those you are eligible for. The highest‑priority bidder is normally offered the home. Refusing several reasonable offers may reduce your priority.

Other things considered

Landlords will look at household size, accessibility needs, or local policies such as priority for key workers or care leavers when making allocation decisions.

Location

A council can offer you housing outside your preferred area, but they must consider your needs (health, schooling, support, safety). If you’re homeless, they can place you out of your preferred area, but only if the accommodation is suitable. You can challenge the offer if it doesn’t meet your needs.

If you disagree with a decision

You can ask for a review of your banding or application, complain if the correct process wasn’t followed, and seek advice from Citizens Advice or local housing support organisations.

Useful links

Four Million Homes – Tenant rights

GOV.UK – Apply for a council home

GOV.UK – Housing association homes

Citizens Advice – Challenging a housing application decision