Housing Needs - Are You Homeless? 

This advice sheet explains what you should do if you are homeless or threatened with homelessness, and the Council's duties and responsibilities to homeless applicants.

You may be homeless or threatened with homelessness if:
* You do not have any accommodation that you can occupy
* You have been given notice to quit your home
* It is not reasonable for you to return or remain in your home
* You have been illegally evicted

If you fall into one of the above categories then you need to contact a Housing Advisor. They will be able to provide advice and information about your legal rights and housing options.

The Council will investigate your claim of homelessness. Our enquiries will find out:
* If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness
* If the Council has a responsibility to house you
* If you are in "priority need"
* If you have a local connection with East Hampshire
* If you have made yourself homeless intentionally

During these enquiries, you will be asked for further information and you will be visited at home.

What happens next? 

Once the Council's enquiries have been completed, a decision will be made on your application. This will normally be within 28 days.

What hapens if my application is not accepted?

If the Council is not required to house you, it will provide advice and assistance to help you find your own accommodation. 

What happens if my application is accepted? 

If your application is accepted, the Council will have a duty to obtain suitable temporary accommodation for a period of up to two years, after which your application for assistance will be reviewed.

What is temporary accommodation? 

The Council uses several different types of temporary accommodation; short stay flatlets, leased properties and in emergencies, bed and breakfast. The type and location of the property allocated will depend entirely on the size of the family and what accommodation is available at the time.

How long will I be in temporary accommodation? 

This will depend upon the size of your family and the supply of suitable housing. It is usually difficult to provide a clear estimate. When you have reached the top of the register for a suitable property in an area of your choice, you will be made one reasonable offer of permanent housing. If you refuse this offer the Council will no longer have a duty to house you.

THE COUNCIL DOES NOT HAVE A DUTY TO HOUSE EVERY HOMELESS PERSON BUT IT DOES HAVE A DUTY TO PROVIDE ADVICE AND ASSISTANCE TO ANYONE WHO WANTS IT.

IN ANY EVENT, ANY SOLUTION TO YOUR HOMELESSNESS OFFERED BY A MEMBER OF THE HOUSING NEEDS TEAM IS COUNTED AS HAVING FULFILLED THE COUNCIL'S LEGAL DUTY.