Housing: Local Authority
Local Authority Housing
Local Authority housing has traditionally been the main option for those who could not afford decent housing from their own resources. While other housing options have been introduced in recent years, local authorities remain the main providers of social housing, making available a range of rented housing to meet a variety of accommodation needs.
Do I Qualify
If you are in need of housing and unable to provide it from your own resources, you may apply for local authority housing. In assessing your application, the local authority will take into account such factors as household size, household income, your present accommodation (if any), the condition of that accommodation and any special circumstances including age, disability, medical circumstances etc. If you feel that you qualify for local authority housing, talk to your local authority.
Where do I apply?
The larger local authorities have offices dealing specifically with housing applications. Smaller local authorities usually have an officer designated to deal with housing issues in their area. Addresses and phone numbers of local authorities are listed in the State Services Section towards the front of the telephone directory.
Can I buy my house from the local authority?
Yes. If you have been a tenant of a local authority house for at least one year you may apply to the local authority to purchase it at a discounted price. You may purchase the house either outright or by way of a shared ownership option, which enables a tenant who cannot afford outright purchase in one step to buy a share in the house now and the remainder at larger stages within 25 years. If you are buying outright, you have the choice of applying to your local authority or to a bank or a building society for a mortgage loan. If you are buying by way of shared ownership, you may obtain a mortgage loan from your local authority to meet the cost of the share in the house you are purchasing. A separate leaflet on the tenant purchase scheme is available from your local authority.
What if I Don't Qualify?
If you don't qualify, the local authority will inform you and explain the reasons for their decision. The authority can provide information and offer advice on other housing options available - e.g. Shared Ownership, Affordable Housing, Local authority housing loans etc.
