The council will check whether you became homeless deliberately. They’ll also check that you’ve a local connection. For example, if:

• you’ve lived in the area for some time (usually at least six months in the last year or 3 years out of the last 5), OR
• you’ve a job in the area, OR
• you’ve a close relative (parent, brother, sister) who’s lived there for over 5 years and you want to live near them

The council will let you know in writing whether they will house you or not. If you don’t agree with their decision, you can ask them to reconsider. Details of how to do this are sent with your decision letter. You must do this within 21 days of receiving the letter. Get advice quickly

See Who Else Can Help?

If they decide they don’t have a duty to provide permanent housing for you, they should:

• help you find other accommodation
• give you information about other places to try, such as housing

• associations, hostels or private landlords

If the council decide they have a duty to house you:

• You should be offered a tenancy with the council or a housing association.
• The tenancy you’re offered should be suitable for you. Get advice about whether to accept or refuse any accommodation they offer you.

See Who Else Can Help?

Council tenancies are advertised in local papers, council offices and on the Property Pool website. You'll need to bid for all advertised properties via the website – see Propertypool section for details.

You're considered a priority need if you're aged 16 or 17 (unless social services have a responsibility for you). If you're homeless because you left home the council may check whether there's any chance of you moving back home.

If social services are responsible for you the council doesn't have to find you accommodation, but social services must find you somewhere to live. It won't usually be your own tenancy. It’s more likely to be supported housing or foster care.