Lewisham Council is responsible for the allocation of all properties. 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 join the housing register, you will need to apply online at FindYourHome.
Available housing schemes
Due to the severe shortage of home available to let each year. You could be waiting a considerable length of time before you are made an offer. There are a number of alternative rehousing options available which could help you move more quickly.
Downsize
If you have more bedrooms than you need, Lewisham Council can find you a smaller, more manageable home. They may also be able to help with removal and costs for cooker, washing machine, landline and post re-direction.
Your old house can then be given to a family who needs the extra space.
Visit Trading Places on the council’s website if you are interested.
Mutual exchange
As long as certain conditions are met and both landlords give written consent, secure tenants have the right to exchange their property with another eligible tenant, locally or in another part of the country.
To search for available properties, you can register with House Exchange or HomeSwapper
Once you have found a suitable match, you will need to make an application through the online portal.
Move to another borough
If you want to move to another part of London, you may be eligible for the Housing Moves scheme. If you want to move to another part of the UK, you may be eligible for the Homefinder UK scheme.
Retire to the seaside or country
If you are over 55, you may be eligible for the Seaside and Country Homes scheme, which helps Londoners move into bungalows and flats outside of London.
Get help to move into private renting
If you want to move into private renting, Lewisham Council can give you up to £2,650 to help with the:
- first month’s rent
- deposit
- moving costs.
See if you are eligible for the Fresh Start scheme.
Get help to buy a house
If you live in a council property, Lewisham Council may be able to give you a cash grant of £25,000-£44,000 to help you buy a new home. Not only does this help you get on the property ladder, it also helps to free up homes for people on the Council’s waiting list.
Visit the Council’s website for more information.
Buy your council home
The Right to Buy scheme allows some tenants to purchase the property they rent from the council at a discount. See the Right to Buy section for more information
Sheltered housing
For older people who wish to live independently but with the peace of mind of 24-hour alarm service and access to support staff. Find out more.