What Are Housing Associations?
Housing associations are independent, not-for-profit organisations that play a key role in providing affordable housing across the UK. Sometimes known as registered social landlords or private registered providers, they own and manage homes for people who might struggle to rent or buy on the open market. Their main aim is to offer secure, good-quality homes at rents below typical private sector levels, making housing more accessible for those on lower incomes or with particular needs.
Unlike private landlords, housing associations operate under strict regulation – primarily overseen by the Regulator of Social Housing in England, or equivalent bodies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. They reinvest any surplus income back into maintaining existing homes, building new properties, and supporting local communities, rather than distributing profits to shareholders. This non-profit status helps ensure that tenants’ needs remain at the heart of their work.
Housing associations differ from local councils and private landlords in several ways. While councils are part of local government and provide social housing as a public service, housing associations are independent but work closely with local authorities to meet housing demand. In contrast, private landlords are individuals or companies renting out property for profit, often with fewer long-term security guarantees for tenants.
If you’re considering renting from a housing association, it’s important to understand the types of tenancies they offer. These can include assured tenancies, assured shorthold tenancies, and sometimes fixed-term tenancies – each with its own terms, rights, and responsibilities. Generally, housing association tenants enjoy greater security and more predictable rent increases than those renting privately.
Housing associations also tend to have a strong community focus. Many run support services for residents, invest in neighbourhood improvements, and offer advice on issues such as budgeting or employment. Their commitment to long-term, affordable housing makes them a vital part of the UK’s efforts to tackle housing shortages and support vulnerable groups.
Types of Tenancies Offered by Housing Associations
When you rent a home from a housing association, the type of tenancy agreement you receive is crucial to understanding your rights, responsibilities, and the level of security you have in your home. Housing associations in the UK typically offer two main types of tenancies: secure and assured tenancies. Knowing the differences between these and how they compare to private renting can help you make informed decisions about your housing.
Secure tenancies are less common today but still exist, especially for tenants whose council homes were transferred to housing associations before 15 January 1989. These tenancies offer strong rights, including the ability to stay in your home as long as you follow the terms of your agreement. Secure tenants can usually only be evicted for specific legal reasons, and you may have rights such as passing your tenancy to a family member or buying your home under certain schemes. For a detailed explanation of secure tenancies and how they might apply to you, visit secure tenancies (Shelter England).
Most new housing association tenants will have an assured tenancy. Introduced by the Housing Act 1988, assured tenancies offer a high level of security, meaning you can usually stay in your home long-term as long as you pay your rent and follow the tenancy conditions. Your landlord must follow a legal process to evict you, and you have rights to repairs, succession, and sometimes the right to exchange homes with another tenant. To learn more about the rights and protections that come with this type of agreement, see assured tenancies (Shelter England).
Some housing associations may offer other tenancy types, such as introductory or starter tenancies. These are usually probationary periods lasting 6 or 12 months, after which you may be offered a more secure tenancy if there have been no issues. These starter tenancies have fewer rights and are easier for the landlord to end if problems arise.
Tenancies with housing associations generally provide more stability and stronger legal protections than those typically found in the private rented sector. For example, private landlords often use assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs), which offer less security and can be ended with a relatively short notice period after the fixed term. In contrast, secure and assured tenants with housing associations can only be evicted for specific legal reasons, and the process is more regulated.
Knowing what type of tenancy you have is essential. It affects your rights to stay in your home, your ability to make changes to the property, and your protection from eviction. It also determines what happens if you want to move, swap homes, or have someone else take over your tenancy. Always read your tenancy agreement carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
For a deeper look at the different types of tenancies available, including how they affect your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, visit our dedicated page. This will help you understand exactly what to expect from your housing association tenancy and how it compares to other housing options.
How Housing Associations Differ from Other Rental Options
Housing associations play a unique role in the UK’s housing landscape, offering affordable homes with a focus on community and long-term support. Understanding how they differ from other rental options can help you make an informed decision about your next home.
Both housing associations and council housing provide social housing aimed at people who need affordable accommodation. They share similarities, such as rent levels set below the market rate and eligibility criteria based on need. Both types of landlords are regulated by government bodies and must comply with the Regulator of Social Housing’s standards.
However, there are some key differences:
Ownership and Management: Council housing is owned and managed by local authorities, while housing associations are independent, not-for-profit organisations.
Allocation: Although both use waiting lists, housing associations may have their own application processes in addition to local council schemes.
Types of Tenancy: Housing associations often offer assured or fixed-term tenancies, while councils typically provide secure tenancies, which can sometimes offer more long-term security.
Renting from a housing association is quite different from renting from a private landlord or renting through a letting agent. Here’s how they compare:
Affordability: Housing association rents are usually lower than private rents, making them more accessible for people on lower incomes.
Security of Tenure: Tenancies with housing associations tend to offer more stability. Most tenants have assured or assured shorthold tenancies under the Housing Act 1988, providing greater protection from eviction compared to the typical six- or twelve-month assured shorthold tenancy in the private sector.
Regulation: Housing associations are strictly regulated and must follow clear standards for property maintenance, tenant involvement, and rent increases. Private landlords are subject to fewer regulations, and standards can vary widely.
Support Services: Unlike most private landlords or letting agents, housing associations often provide extra support, such as help with benefits, repairs, and community projects.
A key difference is the community ethos of housing associations. Many are charities or community benefit societies, reinvesting any surplus into improving homes and services. They frequently offer:
Tenant engagement activities
Support for vulnerable residents
Initiatives to improve neighbourhoods
This focus on tenant wellbeing and community building sets housing associations apart from commercial landlords, whose primary aim is often profit.
Benefits:
Lower rents: Typically set at social or affordable rent levels, making them more manageable for many households.
Greater security: Longer-term tenancies and regulated eviction processes offer peace of mind.
Better standards: Properties must meet the Decent Homes Standard, and tenants have clear routes to complain if things go wrong.
Access to support: Many associations offer advice on managing finances, accessing benefits, or maintaining your tenancy.
Potential Limitations:
Eligibility criteria: Not everyone will qualify; priority is given to those in greatest need.
Waiting times: High demand means waiting lists can be long, especially in certain areas.
Limited choice: You may have less say over location or property type compared to the private sector.
Understanding these differences can help you decide whether a housing association tenancy is right for you, or whether another option – such as council housing, renting through a letting agent, or renting from a private landlord – better suits your needs.
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities in Housing Association Homes
As a tenant in a housing association home, you have important rights and responsibilities that help ensure your tenancy is secure, your living environment is safe, and your relationship with your landlord is clear. Understanding these can help you make the most of your home and know what to do if problems arise.
Security of tenure: One of the main advantages of renting from a housing association is greater security compared to many private lets. Most tenants have either an assured or assured shorthold tenancy, both of which offer legal protection against eviction without good reason. For a deeper understanding of why security of tenure matters and how it underpins your rights, you can read more from the United Nations.
Repairs and maintenance: By law, housing associations must keep your home in a good state of repair. This includes fixing structural problems, heating, plumbing, and electrical systems. If repairs are needed, report them to your landlord as soon as possible. They are responsible for addressing issues within a reasonable time frame, as set out in your tenancy agreement and under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
Privacy and access: You have the right to enjoy your home without unnecessary interference. Housing association staff must give you at least 24 hours’ notice before entering your property, except in emergencies.
Protection from unfair treatment: The Housing Act 1988 set out many of the rights and protections for tenants in social housing, including fair processes for rent increases and eviction.
Paying your rent: You must pay your rent and any service charges on time. Falling behind on payments can put your tenancy at risk.
Caring for your home: While your landlord handles major repairs, you’re expected to look after your home, carry out minor repairs (like changing light bulbs or smoke alarm batteries), and keep it clean and tidy.
Respecting neighbours: Anti-social behaviour, such as excessive noise or harassment, can lead to warnings or even eviction. Housing associations often have policies in place to help resolve neighbour disputes.
Notifying your landlord: Let your housing association know if you plan to be away for an extended period or if your circumstances change, as this could affect your tenancy or benefits.
If you have a problem with your housing association – such as delays in repairs, disputes over rent, or issues with neighbours – start by raising the issue directly with your landlord. All housing associations must have a clear complaints process. If you’re not satisfied with their response, you can escalate your complaint to the Housing Ombudsman, an independent body that investigates complaints about social housing.
It’s illegal for housing associations to discriminate against you based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, disability, religion, or family status. If you believe you’ve experienced rental discrimination, you have the right to challenge this. Keep records of any unfair treatment and seek advice from organisations like Shelter or Citizens Advice.
Knowing your rights and responsibilities is the first step to a successful tenancy. If you’re unsure about any aspect of your tenancy, or if you feel your rights are not being respected, don’t hesitate to seek independent advice. This helps ensure you can enjoy your home with confidence and security.
Financial Support and Managing Rent Costs
If you are renting from a housing association and finding it difficult to keep up with your rent, there are several forms of financial support available to help you manage costs.
One of the main sources of help is Housing Benefit, a government payment designed to assist people on low incomes with their rent. Housing Benefit can cover part or all of your rent, depending on your circumstances, such as your income, savings, household size, and the amount of rent you pay. It is available to many tenants in housing association properties, although new claims are generally being replaced by Universal Credit for working-age individuals.
You can find a detailed explanation of how Housing Benefit works, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, on the Housing Benefit page from Scope UK. If you are already claiming Universal Credit, your housing costs may be included as part of your monthly payment instead.
If Housing Benefit or Universal Credit does not cover all your rent, or if you are struggling due to a change in circumstances, you might be eligible for additional housing assistance. This can include Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs), which local councils can provide to help with shortfalls in rent or unexpected financial difficulties. DHPs are not automatic and are awarded based on your individual situation, so it’s important to explain your circumstances fully when applying.
Some councils also offer other forms of support, such as hardship funds or advice services, to help tenants avoid rent arrears and potential eviction.
To apply for Housing Benefit, you will usually need to contact your local council. They will ask for information about your income, savings, household, and rent. If you are applying for Universal Credit, you can do this online via the government’s website, and your housing costs will be assessed as part of your claim.
For Discretionary Housing Payments or other local support, speak to your local council’s housing or benefits team. They can guide you through the application process and let you know what evidence you will need to provide.
It’s important to keep up with your rent payments to avoid falling into arrears, which could put your tenancy at risk. If you are struggling, contact your housing association as soon as possible – they may be able to offer flexible payment plans or direct you to support services. Make sure to keep records of your payments and any correspondence with your landlord or the council.
If you need more information about your options or are unsure where to start, exploring our housing assistance section can help you understand the support available and how to access it.
Home Swapping and Moving Options for Housing Association Tenants
If you are a housing association tenant and wish to move, one flexible option is to exchange your home with another tenant through a process known as a home swap, or mutual exchange. This allows you to swap your property with another council or housing association tenant anywhere in the UK, provided both landlords give their approval.
A home swap involves two or more tenants agreeing to exchange their homes. Each tenant must have a secure or assured tenancy, which are the most common types of social housing tenancies. Both your current landlord and the landlord of the other property must approve the exchange before you can move. It’s important to note that you cannot swap homes without this permission, as doing so could put your tenancy at risk.
Home swaps can offer several advantages:
Greater choice of location: You might find a home closer to work, family, or schools.
Different property types: Swap to a home that better suits your needs, such as more bedrooms or accessible features.
Faster moves: Home swaps can sometimes be quicker than waiting on a transfer list.
Before starting the process, consider the following:
Eligibility: Both tenants must have the right type of tenancy, and rent accounts usually need to be up to date.
Condition of the property: You will accept the home ‘as seen’, so inspect it thoroughly and agree in writing about any repairs or changes needed.
Tenancy rights: After the swap, you will take on the rights and responsibilities associated with the new property’s tenancy agreement, which may differ from your current one.
Legal requirements: Under the Housing Act 1985 (for England and Wales), tenants have the right to exchange with written permission, but landlords can refuse in certain circumstances (for example, if there are possession proceedings or the property is adapted for special needs).
Find a swap partner: Register with your housing association’s recommended mutual exchange scheme, or use national services like HomeSwapper or House Exchange. Some local councils also run their own schemes.
Inspect each other’s homes: Arrange viewings and discuss any expectations or concerns.
Apply for permission: Both parties must fill out mutual exchange application forms and submit them to their respective landlords.
Await landlord decisions: Landlords typically have up to 42 days to respond. They may visit the property and check tenancy conditions.
Complete legal paperwork: If approved, you’ll sign new tenancy agreements and agree a moving date.
If you want more detailed guidance on arranging a swap, the step-by-step process is explained on our page about home swaps.
Remember, never hand over keys or move in until you have written permission from all landlords involved. If you need support, your housing association’s tenancy team can offer advice, or you can contact local housing advice services for help with the process.
Shared Living and Subletting in Housing Association Properties
Sharing your home with others or considering subletting can be a way to make housing more affordable or flexible, but there are important rules to be aware of if you live in a housing association property.
House sharing involves living with one or more people who are not part of your immediate family. In housing association properties, this typically means having a joint tenancy with others, or taking in a lodger. Joint tenancies are often set up when two or more people apply for a home together, giving each person equal rights and responsibilities under the tenancy agreement.
If you want to share your home with someone who is not already named on your tenancy, such as a friend or partner, you must usually ask your housing association for permission. Some associations allow tenants to take in a lodger (someone who lives with you but does not have exclusive use of any part of the property), but there are often restrictions. For example, you must not allow your home to become overcrowded, and you remain responsible for ensuring your lodger follows the rules set out in your tenancy agreement.
When sharing a housing association property, all tenants are responsible for paying the rent and looking after the home. If you have a joint tenancy, each tenant is “jointly and severally liable,” which means if one person does not pay their share of the rent, the others can be held responsible for the full amount. You are also all responsible for any damage caused to the property.
It’s important to set clear ground rules with anyone you share with, including how you will split bills, look after communal areas, and handle disputes. The housing association may also have policies on guests and visitors, so check your tenancy agreement to avoid any breaches.
Subletting means renting out all or part of your home to someone else. Most housing association tenants do not have the right to sublet their property without written permission from the landlord. In fact, subletting your home without consent is usually a serious breach of your tenancy agreement and could lead to eviction.
For more information about what counts as subletting and the difference between having a lodger and subletting, see Lodgers and sub-letting – Broadacres Housing Association. In general, taking in a lodger is sometimes allowed, but renting out your entire home or a self-contained part of it to someone else is not.
The law is strict on this point. Under the Housing Act 1988 and the Housing and Planning Act 2016, unlawful subletting can result in the loss of your home and even criminal prosecution in severe cases. Always check your tenancy agreement and speak to your housing association before making any arrangements.
If you are thinking about sharing your home or taking in a lodger, contact your housing association first. They will explain what is allowed under your tenancy and what steps you need to take. Never sublet your home without written permission. If you break the rules, you risk losing your tenancy.
To learn more about your tenancy rights and how to avoid breaching your agreement, explore our guides on house sharing and subletting. Being informed will help you make the best choices for your living situation and protect your home.
Other Housing Options Related to Housing Associations
When considering housing association homes, it’s helpful to understand how they compare to other types of affordable housing and alternative living arrangements. Here’s an overview of some related options, along with guidance on how they differ from housing association tenancies.
Council housing is another major provider of affordable homes in the UK. Like housing associations, local councils offer secure and affordable tenancies, usually prioritising people in greatest housing need. However, council homes are managed directly by the local authority, whereas housing associations are independent, not-for-profit organisations. Both options often use similar allocation systems and tenancy agreements, but the application process and eligibility criteria can vary. For more on how council housing works, including how to apply and what to expect as a tenant, see our page on council housing.
Taking in a lodger or living as a lodger is another alternative, especially for those seeking flexibility or a more informal arrangement. A lodger rents a room in someone else’s home, usually sharing facilities like the kitchen and bathroom. This is different from renting a self-contained property from a housing association. Lodgers typically have fewer legal protections than housing association tenants, as their rights are governed by licence agreements rather than assured or secure tenancies. If you’re considering becoming a lodger or taking one in, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities. Learn more about lodgers and resident landlords and how these arrangements are regulated.
For students, purpose-built accommodation or shared student houses may be more suitable than a housing association tenancy. Student housing is often provided by universities or private companies, and tenancies are usually fixed-term to match the academic year. While housing association homes can be an option for students, especially those with particular needs, student housing is designed specifically for young people in education and may offer additional support or facilities. For a detailed comparison and advice on choosing the right option, visit our student housing page.
Each of these housing options comes with its own set of rules, eligibility criteria, and legal protections. Housing association tenancies are typically more secure than lodging arrangements, and may offer longer-term stability than some types of student housing. Council homes and housing association properties often have similar rent levels and tenant rights, but differ in management and application processes. Before making a decision, consider your personal circumstances, the level of security you need, and what type of tenancy best suits your lifestyle.
If you’d like to explore these alternatives in more depth, follow the links above to find practical advice, eligibility information, and guidance on applying for each type of housing.
Making an Informed Choice: Renting a House with Housing Associations
When considering whether to rent a home from a housing association, it’s important to weigh up several key factors so you can make the choice that’s right for you. Housing associations are not-for-profit organisations that offer affordable and secure homes, but the experience of renting from them can be quite different from renting in the private sector or through your local council.
Key Points to Consider
Affordability and Security: Housing associations usually set rents below market rates, making them a popular option for people on lower incomes. In most cases, they offer longer-term tenancies, which can provide greater stability compared to many private rentals.
Types of Tenancies: Understanding the type of tenancy agreement you’ll be offered is essential. Most housing association tenants have either an assured or an assured shorthold tenancy, governed by the Housing Act 1988. Assured tenancies offer more security, while assured shorthold tenancies are more common for new tenants and provide less long-term protection.
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities: As a tenant, you have legal rights, such as the right to live in a safe and well-maintained property, protection from unfair eviction, and the right to challenge rent increases. You’re also responsible for paying your rent on time and taking care of your home. The Regulator of Social Housing sets standards that housing associations must follow, including requirements for repairs, tenant involvement, and fair treatment.
Application Process and Waiting Lists: Applying for a housing association property often involves joining a waiting list, which can be long in some areas. You may need to meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having a local connection or being in housing need.
Why Understanding Tenancy Types and Rights Matters
Knowing your tenancy type and rights can help you avoid problems and make informed decisions. For example, if you have an assured tenancy, you are better protected from eviction, and your rent can only be increased in specific ways. Being clear on your rights also means you can confidently request repairs or challenge unfair treatment.
Explore All Your Housing Options
Renting from a housing association is just one of several options. It’s worth comparing what’s available, including renting a house in general, renting from a private landlord, or applying for council housing. Each option has its own rules, benefits, and drawbacks. For example, private renting can offer more flexibility and faster access, but usually at a higher cost and with less security.
Next Steps
Before making your decision, take time to research, ask questions, and read your tenancy agreement carefully. If you’re unsure about your rights or need help understanding your options, local advice agencies or housing charities can provide support. For a broader overview of what to expect and how to prepare, see our guide to renting a house. Comparing this with information on renting from a private landlord can help you make the most informed choice for your circumstances.
