Due to a high number of applications and limited property availability, the Household Member Scheme is currently closed to new applicants. It will remain closed until April 2026 when the situation will be reviewed.
Exceptions may apply in certain cases, such as:
- Residents who wish to downsize
- Households that need to be relocated (decanted)
- Other exceptional circumstances
In these cases, we may use our discretion to offer a split tenancy or other suitable arrangements.
If you qualify for one of these exceptions, the eligibility criteria below will apply.
Can I apply for the scheme?
You can apply for the scheme if:
- You are over 18
- You are able to demonstrate that you will be able to afford the rent of your new home
Your current home must be too big for your family. If your current home is too big for your family, the tenant will also be required to move to a smaller property, so check that they agree with this before you apply.
You plan to move alone or as part of a couple. If you have children that you want to live with you, you are not eligible for this scheme. However, we can offer you advice on your housing options.
I’m living in a property that is too big for our family- how do I move?
There are two steps to making this offer as both you (the Household Members scheme applicant) and the tenant will have to move.
If the tenant is eligible for a transfer, the first step is to find them a new home. We'll offer the them suitable properties as they become available and we can also register them to bid for properties on our choice-based lettings site, if they are interested in doing this.
Once the tenant has moved, we'll make you one offer of a property. This may not happen at the same time, so you should make alternative living arrangements whilst you are waiting to be made an offer.
We do our best to make an offer which will be the best fit for you, but often the perfect property is not available and some compromise will be required.
If you refuse this offer without good reason, you will not be offered another, so you must either take it or look for housing outside of this scheme.
Can I afford the property?
The rent will vary according to what area your new home is in. Before your application is approved you will be expected to demonstrate how you are going to pay the rent.
It’s important to consider other costs that you will have to pay on top of your rent, which you may not have had to pay in the past.
How can I apply?
To apply for the scheme, complete the application form and return it to your housing officer.
