About housing associations

Most housing associations are not-for-profit organisations that build and manage homes for people in housing need.  If you cannot afford to buy or privately rent your own home, housing associations in partnership with local councils now run a scheme called HomeChoice HomeChoice This link will take you to an external website... , which might be for you.

Housing associations receive government funding and are registered with the Homes and Communities Agency This link will take you to an external website... , a government body that makes sure housing associations manage their homes and money well.

I live in a housing association property - what are my rights?

Housing associations must provide new tenants with a tenancy agreement.  This will tell you what your rights and responsibilities are in your new home.

Rent - Your rent should be lower than you would pay a private landlord for the same kind of property.  You may have to put money toward maintaining communal areas.

Repairs - Housing associations are responsible for most repairs - roofs, gutters, windows, doors, brickwork.  They must ensure plumbing, gas and electricity are working safely.

You will probably be responsible for internal decoration and any damage you cause.  The housing association should tell you what repairs you are responsible for.

Eviction - A housing association can only evict you with a court order and must have a legal reason:

• not paying the rent
• causing a nuisance to neighbours
• not living in your home.