Lewisham Council is responsible for the allocation of properties. If you want to move home Lewisham Council has a number of schemes available. However, like many other London boroughs, Lewisham has a shortage of homes compared with the number of people who want to move. If you would like to be on the housing register, you will need to fill in an application form, our staff can help with this. To find out more about different housing schemes contact
Lewisham Council. You can also download the Council's
rehousing allocations policy.
Rehousing Development
Homesearch
Every week (except Bank Holiday weeks) homes available to let are published in a newsletter, which is available every Thursday in our offices and at: www.lewishamhomesearch.org.uk
Fresh Start
This scheme helps households who want to relocate to different parts of the country where there is a surplus of housing, usually the north of England, Scotland, or Wales. For more information visit the Council's website or contact:
 | 020 8314 8180 |
Mutual exchange
Tenants of Lewisham Homes are able to seek to mutually exchange (home swap) their home using Lewisham Council’s chosen on-line provider.
House Exchange, for Council Tenants & Housing Association Tenants, enables tenants to find a home swap anywhere in the UK. Any tenant can apply though you must get approval from your landlord before you move, and owe no money on your rent account.
Visit the House Exchange website to find out more http://www.houseexchange.org.uk/
If you do not have access to the internet Customer Services staff at our office receptions will be able to assist you to register.
Housing co-operatives
If you were to become a Housing co-operative tenant, you would be expected to attend regular meetings and help make decisions on rents, repairs and other management issues. Anyone on the housing list can apply, by indicating on the housing application form.
Seaside and country homes scheme
Offers housing designed for older people mainly in the south of England. Anyone on the housing list who is 60 years and over can apply.
| 020 8314 9067 |
Under occupation scheme
Tenants with more bedrooms than they need can be offered smaller, more manageable homes through this scheme.
| 020 8314 8827 |
Sheltered housing
For older people who wish to live independently but with the peace of mind of a 24-hour alarm service and access to support staff.
Right to Buy
The Right to Buy scheme allows some tenants to purchase the property they rent from the Council. For eligible tenants the price of the property will be offered at a price lower than the full market value.
Who is eligible?
- Secure tenancies starting on or before 17 January 2005: If you have had a public sector tenancy for more than two years you may be able to purchase your home.
- Secure tenancies starting after 17 January 2005: If you have held a public sector tenancy for at least five years you may be able to purchase your home.
Who is not eligible?
Any tenant who has a service tenancy in connection with their job; is living in sheltered housing; whose home has been adapted or is particularly suitable for use by people with a disability or are elderly; or has lost their secure tenancy as a result of a court order.
What discount will you receive?
You could receive up to a maximum discount of £16,000, depending on how long you have been a tenant.
