Find out about our new system of allocating housing

The council is holding drop-in sessions throughout the borough so residents can find out more about the new way we will be allocating properties to those on the housing register.

The new banding system based on government guidance will replace the current points system next month with the introduction of choice based lettings (CBL).  The sessions will provide a demonstration of the CBL system and an opportunity to ask housing options officers any questions.

Details of sessions:

• Saturday 15 November, 9am – midday
  Hertsmere Borough Council Civic Offices
  Elstree Way, Borehamwood
• Wednesday 26 November, 9.30am – midday
  The Wyllyotts Centre
  Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar
• Wednesday 26 November, 2pm – 4.30pm
  The Bushey Centre
  High Street, Bushey

Under the new CBL system, households will be put into bands from A to E depending on their housing need with A being the highest priority.  The choice based lettings scheme means that when properties become available, they will be advertised in a variety of ways, such as on the council’s website and in council offices, and applicants can register their interest in properties they like the look of by making a 'bid'.  Applicants who are unable to view the adverts on the internet or at council offices can be sent the details.  Generally, the successful applicant will be the person who has been in the highest housing needs band for the longest period of time. 

Councillor Hannah David, Housing and Planning Portfolio Holder, said: “The new way of allocating housing will be simpler and more transparent. 

"The introduction of choice based lettings will give applicants a say in where they live by letting them select properties they are interested in instead of the council allocating properties to the next person on the list.

“It is important that applicants understand the new system so I would encourage them to drop in to one of the information sessions where they can ask any questions they might have.”

Applicants will also have the opportunity to move to neighbouring areas as Hertsmere is working with St Albans, Three Rivers, Watford and Welwyn Hatfield councils on the choice based lettings scheme called Herts Choice Homes.  A small number of properties will be available for applicants on any of the councils' waiting lists. 

For more information call the housing team on 020 8207 7420.