1) Can anyone make an appointment to see a Housing Options Officer?

Yes, as long as you live or are looking for accommodation within the Braintree District.

2) Who can join the Gateway to Homechoice Housing Register?

Anyone, over the age of 16,  can apply to join Gateway to Homechoice register, however to be accepted onto the register you must meet the eligibility criteria.

There are some people who will not by law be eligible to join the housing register. These are:

* Certain people who are subject to Immigration Control under the 1996 Asylum and Immigration Act

* Certain people from abroad who are not subject to immigration control but who are not habitually resident in the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or the Republic of Ireland

* People (including members of their household) who have been guilty of unacceptable behaviour that makes them unsuitable to be a tenant.

Click here allocations for further information.

3) Can you help me find accommodation?

Yes, the Housing Options Officer will help you look at the different housing options which may be available to you and will assist you in identifying suitable, sustainable private rented accommodation.

4) Can you advise on benefits?

The Housing Options Officer can provide some advice with regards to benefits.  For more specialised advice we will refer you to the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).  Alternatively you can contact the CAB directly on the contact details below.

Online: www.bhwcab.org.uk
Tel: CAB Debt Advice Line: 01376 512168

5) Can you advise on relationship breakdowns ?

Yes, the Housing Options Service can advise on relationship breakdown, including Property Rights. However, we would always advise that you seek independent legal advice from a Solicitor prior to your appointment with your Housing Options Officer.

6) Can you advise on Financial Issues?

Your Housing Options Officer can assist you in completing a budget statement, which helps assess your income and expenditure. If you need specialist financial advise, we would advise you to seek it from the Citizens Advice Bureau or a specialist financial advisor.

7) Can you help with mortgage/rent arrears?

You should contact us as soon as you start experiencing financial problems.

8) How much notice is my landlord required to give me, in order to end my tenancy?

This would depend on the type of tenancy and the reason for serving the notice. However, for a standard assured, shorthold tenancy, your landlord is required to give two months clear written notice. Please contact a Housing Options Officer for further information.

9) Can you help me with a deposit for private rented accommodation?

In some circumstances, Braintree District Council may be able to assist with the deposit on a private rented property, please contact your Housing Optoins Officer for more information.  If you are in receipt of benefits, you may also be able to obtain a crisis loan from the DWP to pay for rent in advance.