🏠 Council Housing in Leeds – What You Need to Know
Council housing is run by Leeds City Council. These homes are for people who need affordable rent – especially those on low incomes. there are lots of people waiting for council housing and there is no guarantee you will be successful if you apply.
👤 Who Can Apply?
Not everyone can apply. It depends on your immigration status. The rules are complicated and can change. It’s best to speak to an adviser:
- Leeds City Council
- Citizens Advice Leeds
Here is a simple guide: If you are from the EU:
✅ You can usually apply if:
- You are working
- You have lived in the UK for 5 years or more
❓If you are new to the UK: You may need to take a Habitual Residence Test
If you are from outside the EU:
✅ You can apply if:
- You have permanent residence or indefinite leave to remain
- You have refugee status
📝 How to Apply for Council Housing
To apply, you must join the Leeds Homes Register:
🔗 Go to: www.leedshomes.org.uk
👉 Click on: ‘How to register’ to get the form.
🆘If you need help? Your local Community Hub can help with:
- Filling out the form
- Translations
📋 After you register, Leeds City Council will:
- Check your situation
- Put you on a waiting list
- Give you a priority level (Band A, B, C, or D)
– Band A = highest need
📅 How the Waiting List Works
Each week, the council posts a list of available homes. You can choose the homes you want by placing a bid.
🏠 If many people bid for the same home, it goes to the person who:
- Has the highest priority (e.g., Band A)
- Has been waiting the longest
💡 Tip: You can check how long the wait might be here: Estimate Your Wait Time (This is only an estimate – not a guarantee.)
🧍♂️ Single People: If you are over 18 and not in priority need, the wait can be longer – especially for smaller homes.
🆘If you need help? Your local Community Hub or Housing Office can help you:
- Apply for housing
- Understand your options
🔎 Find your local office:
📞 Or contact the Leeds City Council Housing Team: 0113 222 4412
🕒 Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri: 9am–4pm | Tues: 10am–4pm
📧 [email protected]
🚨 If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless: Use the Leeds Housing Options self-help tool on their website.
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