How to get on the housing list

To apply for a council house or social house you’ll need to fill in a housing application form.

You’ll usually need to provide some form of ID, your national insurance number and proof of your current address. They may ask for references from previous landlords.

Check where to apply

Some areas have a common housing register. This is a joint waiting list shared between the council and housing associations, so you only have to make one application.

If there isn't a common housing register, you'll need to apply directly to the council or housing associations.

To find out your options:

• ask the council if there's a common housing register in your area - find your council’s contact details on mygov.scot
• ask the council for a housing options interview, where a housing adviser will look at your circumstances and advise you of what to do next
• check the Scottish Housing Regulator’s list of registered social landlords, which includes housing associations and cooperatives

When you've decided where to apply, check if there's an application form on their website. If not, ask for one by phone, email or at their office.

What to include in your application

Include any information that could give you higher priority on the waiting list. For example, tell them if:

• your current home is too small for your family
• your current home has serious repair issues
• your home is causing you physical or mental health problems
• you do not have a right to stay in your current home – for example if you live with family who want you to leave
• you have a disability or medical needs and your home is not suitable for you
• you need to move for work or family reasons

Provide evidence if you can, such as letters from your doctor or from social work.

The application form might also ask:

• which areas you’re willing to live in
• what type of housing you want – for example, a house or a ground-floor flat

You could get offered a home more quickly if you're flexible with your preferences.

What happens after you apply

The council or housing association will look at your circumstances and needs. They may need to visit your current home to check if it’s unsuitable or overcrowded.

They should write to tell you how many points you have or which band you're in. Check the allocation policy to make sure you've been given the right priority.

Ask for an update on your priority

If you have not been told about your priority, email or write to the council or housing association for an update.

Copy and paste the sample text and personalise it with your details.

Letter template: ask about your social housing priority

Subject: Update on housing application for

I’m getting in contact to request an update on my housing application. My name is and my current address is . My housing application was submitted on .

Please could you confirm:

– what level of priority I have been awarded under your allocations policy

– the breakdown of the priority by points and/or banding category

– which areas and property types I'm currently being considered for

– how long you estimate I will need to wait for a housing offer

If there is anything else I can do to speed up my wait for housing please let me know.

You can also send the letter as an email attachment or through the post:

• Word template: request an update on your social housing application (docx, 22 kb)
• OpenDocument template: request an update on your social housing application (odt, 9 kb)

Last updated: 24 July 2024

Housing laws differ between Scotland and England.

This content applies to Scotland only.