How do I join the Housing Register?

Find out how to apply to join the Housing Register and what you need to send us.

To join the housing register, you must be aged 16 or over.

How to apply

The form lets you apply for a council or a housing association rented home.

We do not accept all applications.

own a property, either in the UK or abroad
have sold a property within the last 5 years, either in the UK or abroad
have enough income or savings to secure your own housing (NEW FAQ)
are subject to Immigration Control under the 1996 Asylum and Immigration Act
do not usually live in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or Republic of Ireland
have been guilty of unacceptable behaviour as a tenant. Or someone in your household has.
owe money to a current or previous landlord and are not repaying it.

Please do not send original copies of your documents in the post to us.

Proof of identity for all household members who need to be rehoused with you.
Proof of your current address (utility bill).
Proof that you no longer own, or have a financial interest in, a property in the UK or abroad, for example, a completion statement.
If you are not a British Citizen, you need to show evidence of your right to live in the UK. This could be a passport and other documents from the Home Office.
Proof of employment if you work in the Guildford area but do not live in the borough.

These documents must be up to date and valid.

We may ask you for other evidence, if required.

We will reject your application if you do not provide us with the documents we need.

Step 1 - Once we have received your documents, we will process your application.

Step 2 - If we need further information, we will contact you

Step 3 - we will notify you of the outcome of your application

Find out more about our banding scheme.

If you do not agree with the decision that we've made on your housing application, find out how to request a review.

You may wait some years before you are offered any housing. See the latest waiting times on our Housing facts and figures page.