Apply for social housing

How to apply for the social housing register, update your details and advice for your application

Overview

We are currently experiencing high volumes of applications, current waiting time for reviewing applications to join the register: up to 5 months

Applicants already on the register: 5000+

Most people who apply for social housing do not get housed.

This is because the demand for social housing is much higher than available properties. It could be years before a successful applicant gets social housing. Even those in the most need may have a very long wait.

Please be aware that it is highly unlikely that you will be allocated any type of social housing.

The current waiting times for social housing in Barking & Dagenham are:

  One bedroom Two bedroom Three bedroom Four bedroom Five bedroom
Standard expected waiting times in years 6 years 12 years 18 years 67 years *Housing unlikely 

 

You are likely better off exploring other housing options such as:

  • The EHO tool will ask a series of questions and then guide you through the different options that may be available to you to improve your current housing situation
  • If you are on a low income, you may be able to get help with rent payments by claiming Universal Credit
  • If you would like to check what you may be eligible for, you can use the following calculator to see what you can apply for: Benefits - B&D Money
  • If you are open to living in a different part of London, The Mayor of London has produced a map showing average rents for all London postcodes, and you can check to see where you can afford to rent within your budget. You could also find out about renting privately
  • If you are already on the council waiting list or if you are homeless, Homefinder UK can help you find permanent social housing
  • If you have received an eviction notice or think you might become homeless soon, go to our homelessness prevention page

Apply for Social Housing FAQs (DOCX, 75.9 KB)

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