Are you eligible?
The following comes into effect on 24 September 2025.
Details between the old way of allocating housing and the post September 2025 way can be found in our Housing Allocation Changes from 24 September 2025 document.
The first step in applying for social housing that is owned or managed by us or our housing partners is to check your eligibility when you apply to join the housing register.
About the Havering Housing Register
The housing register gives those who have a housing need a chance to bid for social housing.
If you believe you may have a housing need, you may be eligible to join the housing register.
Our Havering Housing Allocation Scheme ensures that homes are allocated fairly, transparently, and based on individual housing needs.
The scheme uses a points-based system to assess and prioritise applications, awarding points for each housing need, depending on the category in which you sit.
Who can apply to join the register?
Generally, you can apply to join the housing register if you:
- are aged 18 or over
- are eligible under immigration and residency rules
- meet the residency of 4 out of the last 6 years and are currently resident in Havering (some exceptions apply to this)
- do not own a property
- have no rent arrears, or a history of eviction on behaviour grounds
- have not been placed in Havering by another local authority in temporary accommodation
- are in housing need (eg overcrowded, homeless, fleeing domestic abuse or have medical needs)
Some tenancy types and applicants may not qualify.
Full eligibility details are outlined in the allocations policy.
How the points system works
You will need to identify what category you fall in to when completing your application.
Categories
Accepted homeless households
Households owed a statutory homelessness duty by Havering Council.
Existing social housing tenants
Tenants seeking a transfer due to under-occupation, overcrowding, or other qualifying reasons.
This includes Housing Association tenants on flexible and assured tenancies, and it relates to tenant who hold the tenancy.
General housing register applicants
All other eligible applicants not falling into the above categories.
This may include households in the private rented sector who have a housing need, or residents living with family and friends who may have a housing need who parents may be Havering Council or Housing Association tenants, as well as private tenants.
The points-based assessment
Each category has its own set of points criteria, tailored to the specific circumstances of applicants in that group.
It’s important to note that points are only awarded based on the criteria relevant to the applicant’s category.
For example, accepted homeless households will receive points based solely on the homelessness duty owed.
They will not receive additional points for factors such as overcrowding or medical needs.
Similarly, existing social housing tenants and general housing register applicants will be assessed against their own defined needs within their respective categories.
Points are then awarded based on their circumstances, including:
- homelessness or risk of homelessness
- overcrowding or poor housing conditions
- medical or welfare needs
- need to move for work, care, or support
- armed forces service
- under-occupation (downsizing)
Your total points determine then determine where you come when you place a bid for housing, alongside your application date.