Introducing a New and Even Fairer Way to Allocate Our Homes

14/05/26

We’re introducing a new and even fairer way to allocate our homes, changing the way we match people to homes.

These changes will help us make clearer decisions and make sure homes go to people who need them most.

What’s changing

We’re replacing the old two-band structure with a new points system.

The more urgent your situation, the more points you’ll receive from 100 to 900.

Examples:

• Leaving hospital and unable to return home safely – 900 points
• Fleeing domestic abuse – 800 points
• Family of five living in a two‑bed home – 700 points
• Young person leaving care – 400 points

Points won’t be added together, we’ll award the highest category that applies to your situation.

We’ll look at your points, when you joined the list, and whether a home meets your needs.

Key dates

31 May 2026: Our waiting list will close

1 June – 31 August 2026:

• We will not accept new applications.
• Existing applicants will be asked to reapply by 31 July – we’ll be sending you more information closer to the re apply date.

1 September 2026: Our new allocations process launches and our waiting list will re open to everyone under the new points based process.

If you’re currently on the waiting list

We will contact you before the end of June with everything you need to reapply.

You’ll then need to submit a new application by 31 July so we can assess you under the new process. For those reapplying, we’re planning to hold a number of drop in sessions to support you.

Why we’re making these changes

Our new approach will help us:

• prioritise those in the greatest need
• make best use of our homes
• ensure a fair and transparent system
• provide a consistent service across all areas

A consistent approach across all neighbourhoods

The new process applies everywhere, creating a clearer and fairer system for everyone.

More support for urgent needs

We’ll prioritise people who:

• are living in unsafe housing
• need to leave hospital
• are experiencing domestic abuse
• are facing serious harassment
• are living in overcrowded or unsuitable homes

Clearer financial rules

You can apply if:

• your household income is under £60,000
• you have less than £16,000 in savings or assets
• (unless exceptional circumstances apply)

More flexibility in lettings

We’ll also consider:

• affordability
• property adaptations
• overcrowding
• under-occupation

Clearer review and appeal rights

If you don’t agree with a decision:

• there will be clearer steps to challenge it
• you’ll have access to a fair review process
• you can escalate to the Housing Ombudsman if needed

What’s not changing

Some important things stay the same:

• 50% of general stock and 75% of 4-bed+ homes will still be let via Birmingham City Council
• we will still assess local connection, right to rent and bedroom need
• local lettings plans remain in place
• your right to request a review remains