Choice Based Lettings

What is Choice Based Lettings ?

Choice Based Lettings (CBL) is a new way for social housing to be let, aimed at giving housing applicants a greater choice over where they live.
 
In the past councils and housing associations registered and assessed applicants depending on their needs and short-listed in priority order when a property became available. Although this worked well, it sometimes meant that applicants have ended up having to accept a property they wouldn’t normally choose.
 
Through CBL, the housing registration process remains unchanged and people are still assessed on their needs, but the big difference is that empty properties are advertised in specially produced magazines and on a central website, similar to estate agents’ information.
 
This means that rather than having to wait for a property to be selected for you by the North Hertfordshire Housing Partnership (North Hertfordshire Homes, Howard Cottage or North Hertfordshire District Council); housing applicants can take control and ‘bid’ for a property which meets their needs.  

How does it work?

Following the fortnightly publication of available properties, applicants will have approximately one week to express an interest in up to three properties they like and which meet their specific housing needs.
 
Once “bidding” closes, the top few will be offered the chance to view the property and the applicant with the highest housing priority will receive a formal offer of tenancy. Although homes will still go to those with the greatest need, it will depend upon who else has bid for that property, rather than who is top of the housing register. The new scheme does also mean that lower priority applicants may be more successful with those properties in lower demand.
For further details click here to download our  user guide 

To apply online click here

How can I find out what properties are available?

 website
All properties can be found on the Home4U website www.home4u.org.uk
 
Fortnightly Free magazine
We will be promoting and distributing a free magazine at key locations across north Hertfordshire including all partners offices, local shops in more rural areas and libraries.
 
Dedicated computer terminals in all Partners' offices
If you know someone who doesn't have access to a computer they can visit any of our offices where they will find a dedicated computer terminal linked to the Home4U website. 

Continued Support

We are aware that CBL is a big change to the way lettings have been done in the past and will do our best to keep you fully informed at all times. We are fully committed to ensuring that the scheme is easy for everyone to use and will continue to work with support agencies to ensure this happens. If you have a query or comments on the new scheme please contact one of the partner representatives below.  

Partner Representatives:
Howard Cottage Housing Association
Jaz Cousins on 01462 683307
 

North Hertfordshire Homes
Lettings Team 01462 633397

North Hertfordshire District Council
Customer Service Centre on 01462 474000

If you are not already on the common housing register and would like to become a tenant click here to find out how you can apply.