I am a council tenant in a home with too many bedrooms

The Council runs an underoccupation scheme which enable council tenants to choose the type of property they want to live in and the area, street, or even property they would like as long as it has at least one bedroom fewer than their current home.

Not only could this reduce bills and time spent housekeeping, but it could also help you move nearer to family and friends.

If you have mobility difficulties, you will be able to move to a more suitable ground floor location.


Do I have to bid for a property?

You don't have to bid for a property, the Council will ask you what you are willing to consider and then try and find a suitable property.

If you want to move to one of the Council's out-borough estates (Aldersbrook, Brentwood and Rainham) you will have a longer wait for a transfer.


I would like to move but cannot afford it

The Council will also help by:

• paying for a removal van;
• paying for the reconnection of your telephone;
• paying for disconnection and reconnection of your cooker; and,
• giving you a lump sum payment

If you are in a two or three bedroom property and move to a smaller home you will be given a payment of £200, If you are of pensionable age or registered disabled it will be £250.

If you are moving from a property with four (or more) bedrooms you will get a payment of £1000 plus £250 for each bedroom you give up.

This means that if you move from a four bedroom to a two bedroom property you'll receive £1500.


What size property am I eligible for?

If you are currently living in a three (or more) bedroom property you are entitled to one more bedroom than your assessed need.

If you are currently living in a two bedroom property you will only be entitled to a one bedroom property under this scheme.