Applying for housing in Norwich

Need help finding council housing or sheltered accommodation?

You're not alone - the Home Options Scheme is here to support you. Whether you're looking for a safe place to live or need extra support, we’ll guide you through every step of the process.

Can I apply?

You can apply if:

• you're 18 or older
• you've lived in Norwich for at least 6 months

You cannot apply if:

• you're under immigration control
• you've caused serious issues in a previous home
• you've broken tenancy rules before
• you've already been rehoused through this scheme in the past year (unless your situation has changed)
• you're buying your home or swapping with another tenant

Live outside Norwich? You may still qualify if:

• you're over 60 and need to be near medical care or family
• you're in the armed forces
• you have exceptional circumstances

Ready to get started?

Call us on 0344 980 3333 (select option 3 followed by option 1) to speak with a housing adviser. They’ll talk through your situation and may book an appointment for you.

Need an interpreter? Just ask.

Prefer email? Reach out at homeoptions@norwich.gov.uk 

What you'll need to provide

To help us help you faster, please have available:

• proof of where you’ve lived for the last 5 years
• your National Insurance number
• photo ID (passport, driving licence, etc.)
• proof of your income
• proof of where everyone over 18 in your household lives

How your application is ranked

We’ll place you in a band based on your housing needs:

• Emergency – urgent issues like unsafe housing or serious medical needs
• Gold – high priority, such as risk of homelessness
• Silver – medium needs, like health or welfare concerns
• Bronze – lower priority or no local connection
• Standard – all other applicants

Your registration date helps decide who gets a property when more than one person applies.

Bidding for a home

Once accepted:

1. You’ll get a letter with your application number and band
2. Use that number to sign up and bid online

No internet? No problem.

• call: 0344 980 3333
• ask for the property newsletter to be posted to you

Medical or mobility needs?

If your current home is affecting your health or mobility:

• call 0344 980 3333 to speak to a specialist
• you may be asked to fill out a medical form
• if you need an adapted home (e.g. wheelchair access), we’ll take that into account

Common questions

• Can I see a home before bidding? No, but photos and details are provided
• Can I view it before accepting? Yes, if your bid is successful
• Do I have to bid every week? No, only when you see a home you want
• Changed your contact details? Update them online so you don’t miss out
• Want to challenge a decision? You can ask for a review in writing within 21 days