Changes to our housing register

What is a Housing Allocations Policy?

We are required by law to have a Housing Allocations Policy that explains how social and affordable housing is allocated.

The policy sets out:

• who can apply to join the housing register
• who qualifies for housing assistance
• how housing need is assessed and prioritised
• how available properties are allocated fairly and consistently

The policy helps ensure that limited social housing is allocated to households with the greatest housing need.

Why are we moving to a new housing register portal?

We have listened to residents and are investing in a new, user-friendly housing portal. The new system will allow customers to manage homelessness and housing register applications in one place, upload supporting documents, and communicate more effectively with Housing Officers, creating a more transparent process.

Why is the housing register in a transition period?

The transition period allows us to introduce the new housing register portal and updated Housing Allocation Policy, ensuring applications are assessed fairly and consistently. It will help ensure applicants are placed in the correct priority band based on their current circumstances while existing applications continue to be supported and assessed.

What is changing from 28 July 2026?

From 28 July 2026, new applicants will complete a Housing Need Assessment form to establish whether they meet the criteria for a full housing application. During the transition period, priority will be given to households with the most urgent housing needs. Existing applicants will remain able to bid for properties and access housing services.

Can I submit a new housing application during the transition period?

If you have a housing need during the transition period, you should complete the Housing Need Assessment form. Applications from households with emergency or priority housing needs will be prioritised.

What happens if I have an emergency housing need during the transition period?

Support remains available if you are:

• homeless
• threatened with homelessness
• sleeping rough
• fleeing domestic abuse
• experiencing another emergency housing situation

Please contact the Housing Options Team as soon as possible on 0300 126 7000 or register online. The transition period does not affect our statutory duties towards homeless households or residents with emergency housing needs.

How long will I wait for social housing?

Demand for social housing in West Northamptonshire exceeds the number of available homes. Joining the Housing Register does not guarantee an offer of accommodation.

Waiting times depend on:

• your priority band
• the size of property you need
• the areas you choose
• the availability of suitable homes

Many applicants wait several years, so you may wish to consider other housing options, including private renting or mutual exchange where appropriate.

Can I still bid for properties during the transition period?

Yes. Applicants with an active Housing Register application can continue bidding for advertised properties unless they are advised otherwise. Any changes to bidding arrangements will be communicated directly.

Will existing applications still be processed during the transition period?

Yes. Applications already accepted onto the Housing Register will continue to be assessed, reviewed and considered for available properties under our Allocation Scheme. We will continue supporting emergency housing needs and meeting our statutory duties throughout the transition period.

Can I still update my application during the transition period?

Yes. Existing applicants should continue to notify us of any changes that may affect their housing need, including:

• change of address
• changes to your household
• pregnancy
• changes to employment status
• changes to income
• medical conditions or support needs
• any other significant change affecting housing need

Failure to provide updated information could affect your application or result in delays.

Will I lose my place in the queue during the transition period?

No. The transition period does not automatically affect your position or priority. Applications will continue to be assessed under the Housing Allocation Scheme and relevant effective date rules. Some applicants may receive a different priority band under the new policy and will be informed directly if this applies to them.

I've already applied and my housing register application has not yet been assessed. Do I need to apply again?

Not necessarily. If further action is required, we will contact you directly. Applicants whose applications have not yet been assessed will be invited to create a new account and will retain their original registration date. Please respond promptly to any requests for information to avoid delays.

Can my application be cancelled?

Yes. Applications may be cancelled if you:

• request cancellation
• no longer qualify under the Housing Allocation Policy
• fail to provide requested information
• fail to respond to correspondence
• move without updating your contact details
• no longer have a qualifying housing need
• fail to participate in application reviews

Where applicable, applicants will be advised of their review rights.

How will my housing priority be determined?

Your priority will be assessed according to your current circumstances and any supporting information provided.

Once an assessment has been completed, you will be informed about:

• whether you qualify for the Housing Register
• your priority band
• your effective date.

How will I know what priority I have been given?

Following assessment, we will write to confirm:

• whether you qualify for the housing register
• your priority band
• your effective date
• any restrictions that apply
• how to request a review if you disagree with the decision

Will my priority band change under the new policy?

Applicants using the new housing register portal will be assessed under the new Housing Allocation Policy. This may result in a different priority band from the one currently held. We will write to applicants explaining any decisions made.

What changes have been made to the qualification criteria?

Key changes include:

• revised priority bands designed to improve access for residents with the greatest housing need
• a requirement for applicants to have an identified housing need that meets the policy criteria
• updated local connection criteria, which may include residence, employment or close family links in West Northamptonshire
• clearer guidance regarding housing-related debts such as rent arrears or former tenancy debts.

Full details are available in the Housing Allocation Policy.

What if I disagree with the decision on my application?

If you disagree with a decision about your eligibility, qualification or priority band, you will be informed of your right to request a review and how to do so.

When will the housing register reopen to new applications?

We will publish updates on our website. Applicants will be invited to create new portal accounts in stages. If you have completed a Housing Need Assessment but were not assessed as having priority need, your application date will be honoured.

How will I be contacted?

Applicants will be invited to move to the new portal through a staggered process. We will contact you using your preferred method:

• Email
• Letter
• Telephone (where necessary)

Please ensure your contact details are up to date.

What documents will I need to provide?

Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked to provide:

• identification for all household members
• proof of address
• immigration or residency documents
• proof of income, benefits or earnings
• recent bank statements
• tenancy agreements
• rent statements or mortgage statements
• evidence of homelessness or a notice seeking possession
• medical evidence supporting housing needs
• evidence of pregnancy
• information relating to property ownership

We will only request evidence relevant to your individual circumstances.

If you are homeless, threatened with homelessness, sleeping rough, fleeing domestic abuse, or facing another housing emergency, contact the Housing Options Team immediately:

• Telephone: 0300 126 7000
• Online: Register online

The transition period does not affect our statutory duties towards homeless households and residents with emergency housing needs.