We make our decision on who to let our homes in accordance to our Allocations Policy. This sets out in accordance with the Housing Act 1996 who is eligible for social rented housing and allows us to make best use of the available housing.

There may be cases where we are unable to offer applicants a home because they don’t meet certain criteria in our allocations policy. If this should happen we advise the applicant and advise them of the next steps also set out in the policy.

Are you local?

We also have to consider the local communities that we operate within. In some areas local lettings policies and/or section 106 agreements are enforced by local planners to ensure that a number of homes are rented to local people. Each policy and/or agreement is tailored to the area in which it relates. If you are successful in being shortlisted for a Marches property local connection checks will be carried out if the local lettings policy applies.

Are you a key worker?

Some policies also stipulate that the homes must be rented to ‘key workers’, e.g.; doctors, nurses, police staff or school teachers.

Are you a good householder?

Marches checks all potential residents for suitability as any lettings agent would. This will include previous landlord references (if applicable), financial income details or previous household conduct information.

Do you have the financial capability to buy a property on the open market?

A number of factors will go into assessing your financial capability to buy but this may exclude you from registering for a social rented home.