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Edinburgh
To rent a home you may need to:
Anyone over 16 can make an application for housing but not everyone will get an offer of housing. Housing is allocated using a points system that reflects your current housing situation.
To see if you qualify for housing in your area you may be asked about your:
- Current housing situation
- Previous housing history
- Financial situation
- Support needs
- Medical conditions
- Connection to the area
- Personal information
Each area has a set of rules for how homes are allocated. Visit Edindex for details.
How to apply for a home
Applications for homes are managed by:
EdIndex Housing
Register or login to their website to search and bid for a home.
Step-by-step guide to applying for a home
Have your housing needs assessed
Complete your Common Housing Register’s application. They will then assess your housing needs and place you in a housing priority group, band, or waiting list.
Housing is prioritised using a points-based system, which reflects your current housing need. It’s important to update them with any changes as this may impact your housing need.
Be matched with a property
You will be offered a property that matches your housing needs. You can turn a property down, but you will only be able to do this a few times.
Complete the paperwork
If you’re successful, there may be further documents we’ll ask you for. We’ll let you know when we get in touch.
You may need to complete an affordability assessment but this will not impact whether you are offered a home.
Receive your formal offer
You will receive a letter with your formal offer.
View your home
As soon as the home is ready, we’ll invite you to a viewing.
You also need to make sure we have all the documents we’ve requested.
Get ready to move in
We’ll keep in touch with you until your home is up to our standards and ready to move in.
We’ll take you through your tenancy agreement and ask you for your first rent payment, then the keys are yours.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent a home directly from you?
In this area we don’t rent our homes directly, instead we use a Common Housing Register. This is a joint waiting list from the council and local housing associations.
What is a Common Housing Register
A Common Housing Register is a housing waiting list shared between the Local Authority and Housing Associations in the same area. It means that you only need to complete one application for housing in an area.
Why might I need to complete an affordability assessment?
We are committed to helping our customers avoid financial hardship. It’s important your home is right for your needs.
However, this assessment will not influence whether or not you are offered a home.
I’m not happy with the decision you’ve made about my housing application. How can I appeal?
An appeal can be made by an applicant in writing, by telephone, email or in person and should be received within 10 working days. Here's how to get in touch.