Transfers and the assisted transfers scheme (downsizing)

Social tenants currently living in council or Housing Association accommodation within the borough can apply to join the council's transfer list on our Housing Register by completing the Housing Application form.

In order to join our Housing Register, you need to apply for a council home or contact the Housing Needs team.

If you are successful in bidding on a transfer property, your home will be inspected before you will be allowed to transfer, and it is very important that you allow access for this inspection.

During the inspection our officers will check if there are any outstanding repairs at the property and will confirm if repairs are the responsibility of the tenant or the Council.

Officers will also check the overall condition of the property and for any damage caused. If council officers are not allowed access for inspection, or if your home is found to be in a poor condition during the inspection, your offer of transfer will be withdrawn.

Assisted transfer scheme

If you are looking to move to a smaller home, you might be entitled to a payment through our Assisted Transfer Scheme.

Following the introduction of the Government's spare room subsidy (also known as the 'bedroom tax') some tenants may be considering downsizing to a smaller property.

Benefits of downsizing: 

• Receive a one-off payment of up to £2,000
• Save on paying the spare room subsidy
• Reduce your heating and electricity bills
• Less maintenance to look after a smaller property
• A larger family is placed in a more suitable home

How does the scheme work?

Changes to Housing Benefit rules mean you are underoccupying your home if you are considered to have one or more spare bedrooms - hence you will receive less Housing Benefit and will need to make up the shortfall in rent yourself. 

If you are underoccupying family accommodation with two or more bedrooms and wish to transfer to a smaller property, you may be eligible for an Assisted Transfer payment. 

You will need to apply for a transfer and we will:

• Arrange an inspection of your current property - a recharge is usually made to remove items and furniture, repair damage, etc
• Check your rent account for outstanding debts
• Arrange for the payment to be made after you have moved into your new, smaller home - rent arrears and recharges will be deducted from the payment  

How much would I be eligible for?

• Tenants of a three, four or five bedroom property moving into a one bedroom property:  £2,000
• Tenants of a two bedroom property moving into a one bedroom property:  £1,600
• Tenants of a three bedroom property moving into a two bedroom property:  £1,600

Are there any exclusions?

The payment scheme does not apply if:

• You move through a mutual exchange
• You move from accommodation which is designated for elderly people only

If you are affected by underoccupancy, would like to reduce your fuel bills or no longer want to look after a large house, please call 01509 634 666. We will arrange for an officer to contact you to talk about your options.

Apply for a transfer

To apply for a transfer, use the webpage below:

More information about applying for a transfer

For further advice and information please contact your Tenancy and Estate Management Officer on 01509 634666 or email tenancy.services@charnwood.gov.uk.