What Is Social Housing?
Social housing refers to affordable homes provided by local councils or housing associations. These properties are offered at lower rents than those charged by private landlords. The main aim is to help people who cannot afford to rent at market rates or buy their own home.
Social housing is designed to support individuals and families with limited income, those facing homelessness, or people with specific needs, such as disabilities. It provides a secure and stable place to live, often with longer tenancies and more predictable rent increases compared to private renting.
There are two main types of social housing in the UK:
- Council housing: Homes owned and managed by your local council. You can learn more about the application process and your rights as a tenant in our guide to council housing in the UK.
- Housing association homes: Properties managed by not-for-profit organisations. These associations work closely with local councils to provide affordable housing to those in need.
Social housing is different from private renting. In the private sector, landlords set their own rents and tenancy rules, which can change more frequently. Social housing tenants have greater legal protections, including regulated rent increases and stronger rights against eviction.
The legal framework for social housing is set out in laws like the Housing Act 1985, which lays out the responsibilities of councils and housing associations, as well as the rights of tenants.
If you want to understand how social housing fits into the wider support available, visit our Housing Assistance: Legal Overview for the UK page for more information on your options and legal protections.
Who Can Apply for Social Housing? Eligibility Criteria
Before you can apply for social housing in the UK, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. These are set by local councils and housing associations, but there are some common rules across the country.
Basic Eligibility Rules
To be considered for social housing, you usually need to:
- Be aged 18 or over (some councils accept applications from 16+)
- Have the right to live in the UK, which means being a British citizen or having settled immigration status
- Live, work, or have a close connection to the local area where you are applying
- Be in genuine need of housing, for example, if you are homeless, living in overcrowded accommodation, or facing serious health risks in your current home
- Meet income and asset limits – people with high incomes or substantial savings may not qualify
Each council may have its own extra requirements, so it’s important to check their specific rules. If you want to know more about how council housing works, see our guide on Council Housing in the UK: How to Apply, Rights, and Key Options.
Priority Groups
Social housing is mainly aimed at those who need it most. Priority is often given to:
- Families with children
- Older people
- People with disabilities or long-term health conditions
- Individuals or families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
- Those fleeing domestic abuse or other serious situations
Being in one of these groups does not guarantee you a home, but it can move you higher up the waiting list.
Accessibility and Disability Needs
If you or someone in your household has a disability or mobility issue, you may be eligible for accessible or adapted housing. Councils must consider your needs and may offer properties with step-free access, wider doorways, or other adjustments. To understand your rights and the types of changes you can request, visit Your Rights to Disability Adjustments and Accessible Housing in the UK.
For people needing extra support – such as those with mental health conditions, learning disabilities, or older adults – there are also supported and specialist housing options available. These provide both accommodation and tailored support services.
Providing Accurate Information
When you apply, you’ll need to give detailed and accurate information about your circumstances, income, and any health or support needs. Councils may ask for documents such as ID, proof of income, medical evidence, or details about your current housing. Giving false or incomplete information can delay your application or even lead to it being refused.
If your situation changes – for example, if you move, have a child, or develop a new health condition – update your application as soon as possible. This helps the council match you with the right housing and ensures you get the support you need.
How to Apply for Social Housing
Applying for social housing in the UK is usually done through your local council or, in some cases, directly with a housing association. The process is designed to be fair, but there are several steps you need to follow and some important things to consider along the way.
Registering for Social Housing
To begin, you’ll need to register with your local council’s housing department. This involves joining a waiting list, sometimes called a housing register. If you are interested in council housing specifically, you can find step-by-step guidance and start your application on the official Apply for council housing – GOV.UK website.
Some areas also have housing associations that manage their own properties and waiting lists. You may be able to apply to both the council and local housing associations to increase your chances.
How Priority Is Decided
Social housing is in high demand, so not everyone on the waiting list will get a home straight away. Councils use a system called “priority need” to decide who gets offered housing first. Priority is usually given to people who are homeless, living in overcrowded or unsuitable housing, have medical needs, or are at risk of harm. Your personal circumstances, such as whether you have children or a disability, will be considered.
Each council has its own rules, so it’s worth checking with your local authority or reading more about council housing in the UK to understand how priority is assessed in your area.
Information and Documents You’ll Need
When you apply, you’ll be asked to provide information about yourself and everyone who will live with you. This typically includes:
- Proof of identity (passport, driving licence, or birth certificate)
- Proof of address (utility bills or tenancy agreements)
- Details of your income and savings
- Information about your current housing situation
- Medical information if you have health needs
Having these documents ready can help speed up your application.
Checking Your Application and Updating Details
After you’ve applied, you can usually check your application status online or by contacting your council’s housing team. It’s important to keep your details up to date – if your situation changes (for example, you move house, have a child, or your health changes), let the council know as soon as possible. This could affect your place on the waiting list.
If You Need Urgent Housing
If you are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or in a situation where you need housing urgently, you may be entitled to help more quickly. Councils have a duty to provide emergency or temporary accommodation in certain cases. Find out more about your rights to emergency and temporary housing in the UK and what support is available if you need immediate help.
Applying for social housing can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process and knowing what to expect can make it easier. Take time to gather your documents, keep your information updated, and don’t hesitate to ask your local council for advice if you’re unsure about any part of the process.
Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Social Housing Tenant
As a social housing tenant in the UK, you have important rights and responsibilities. Understanding these can help you feel secure in your home and know what to do if problems arise.
Your Rights as a Tenant
You have the right to live in a home that is safe, secure, and well-maintained. Your landlord – usually the local council or a housing association – is legally required to make sure your property meets certain standards. This includes:
- Ensuring the property is free from serious hazards, such as damp, mould, or faulty electrics.
- Carrying out necessary repairs in a reasonable time.
- Protecting you from harassment or illegal eviction.
Your tenancy agreement will outline your rights in more detail. It is a legal contract between you and your landlord. Read it carefully and keep a copy for your records. The agreement should cover things like how much rent you pay, how long you can stay, and rules about pets or making changes to the property. For a clear overview of tenant and landlord responsibilities, you can refer to the official GOV.UK guidance on landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities.
Your Responsibilities
As a tenant, you also have important responsibilities. These include:
- Paying your rent on time and in full.
- Taking good care of your home, including keeping it clean and reporting any damage.
- Not causing nuisance or disturbance to your neighbours.
- Letting your landlord know in advance if you plan to be away for a long period.
If you fall behind on your rent, it is important to act quickly. Speak to your landlord as soon as possible – they may be able to help you set up a payment plan or offer support. To learn more about your options and protections if you owe rent, visit our guide on Rent Arrears: Your Rights and What to Do If You Owe Rent.
Requesting Repairs and Reporting Issues
You have the right to request repairs if something in your home is broken or unsafe. Report repairs to your landlord in writing (email or letter is best) and keep a copy for your records. Your landlord must carry out urgent repairs – such as fixing a broken boiler or a leaking roof – within a reasonable time. If repairs are not done, you can seek further help from your local council or a housing adviser.
If You Face Rent Arrears or Risk Losing Your Home
If you find yourself at risk of losing your home, you may have extra protections. Councils have a legal duty to help certain people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. In some situations, the council must provide you with alternative accommodation. Find out more about when the council must rehouse you and your rights under their main housing duty in our guide: When the Council Must Rehouse You: Your Housing Rights.
Where to Learn More
If you want to understand more about your rights, the application process, or your options for social housing, see our full guide: Council Housing in the UK: How to Apply, Rights, and Key Options.
Knowing your rights and responsibilities helps you to stay secure in your home and deal with any issues confidently. If you ever feel unsure, seek advice from your local council, a housing charity, or a legal adviser.
Legal Responsibilities of Social Housing Landlords
Social housing landlords – such as local councils and housing associations – have clear legal responsibilities to protect tenants and maintain safe, decent homes. Understanding these duties can help you know what to expect and what to do if things go wrong.
Safety and Repairs
Landlords must keep your home safe and in good repair. This includes making sure:
- Gas and electrical systems are checked and maintained.
- The structure of the building is sound.
- Heating, hot water, and sanitation are working properly.
- Any urgent repairs are dealt with promptly.
If you report a problem, your landlord should respond within a reasonable time. For example, serious hazards like a broken boiler in winter should be fixed quickly. Less urgent repairs, such as a dripping tap, may take longer.
Tenant Consultation
Social housing landlords must consult tenants about important changes, such as major repairs or changes to housing policies. This means you should have a say in decisions that affect your home or community.
Rent, Tenancy Agreements, and Evictions
Landlords must provide a written tenancy agreement that sets out your rights and responsibilities. Rent should be charged fairly and in line with your agreement. If your landlord wants to increase the rent, they must follow proper procedures and give you notice.
Eviction can only happen for specific legal reasons and with proper notice. Landlords must follow the correct legal process. If you are facing eviction, you have the right to appeal and seek advice.
Protection Against Unfair Treatment
It is illegal for social housing landlords to discriminate against you because of your race, gender, disability, religion, or other protected characteristics. If you feel you have been treated unfairly, you may have grounds to make a complaint or take legal action.
Getting Help
If your landlord is not meeting their legal obligations, you have options. Start by raising your concerns directly with your landlord, in writing if possible. If the problem is not resolved, you can contact your local council’s housing department, or seek advice from a tenants’ advice service.
For more details about your rights as a tenant – including how to handle disputes and what to do if your landlord does not comply with the law – see our guide on Your Legal Rights and Responsibilities When Renting a House in the UK.
Support and Financial Help for Social Housing Tenants
If you are a social housing tenant, or about to become one, there is a range of support and financial help available to make things easier. Understanding your options can help you manage your rent, deal with unexpected challenges, and access specialist services if you need them.
Financial Support for Social Housing Tenants
Most social housing tenants pay rent to their local council or housing association. If you are on a low income, you may be able to get help with your rent through Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. These benefits can cover some or all of your rent, depending on your circumstances. To find out how to apply and check if you are eligible, visit the official Housing Benefit: How to claim – GOV.UK page.
There are also other forms of financial help, such as discretionary housing payments and grants, which can help with rent arrears or moving costs. For more details about the types of support available, see our guide on Help with Housing: Legal Overview.
Advice and Support Services
If you are struggling to pay rent, facing eviction, or dealing with other housing issues, it is important to seek advice early. Local councils often have dedicated housing advice teams. Charities like Shelter and Citizens Advice also offer free, confidential support. These services can help you understand your rights, negotiate with your landlord, and access emergency help if needed.
For those living in council-owned properties, you may also find useful information in our guide to Council Housing in the UK: How to Apply, Rights, and Key Options.
Specialist Support for Homelessness and Domestic Abuse
If you are at risk of losing your home or have nowhere to live, you have legal rights to support from your local council. The Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 sets out the duties councils have to help people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Learn more about your rights and the help available in our overview of Homelessness Support: Legal Overview for the UK.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse and need a safe place to stay, there are specialist services and accommodation available. Find out more about your options in our guide to Refuge Housing: Safe Accommodation for Domestic Abuse Survivors.
Navigating social housing and the support available can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. Contend’s AI Legal Assistant can provide clear, personalised answers to your questions about benefits, tenant rights, and support services. If you are unsure what help you can get, need guidance on the next steps, or want help drafting letters to your council or landlord, Contend can assist you every step of the way. Get the support you need to secure and maintain your home.
