Right to buy application

How we provide this service

The processing of Council tenants' applications to buy their council house is supported by Customer, Legal and Member Services, Member Services.

What to do to get this service

Contact Legal Services. Council tenants who have been tenants for at least two years have the right to buy their Council house. For new tenancies beginning on or after 18 January 2005 the qualifying period is a minimum of 5 years. If you want to apply, a form and an information booklet can be sent to you.

Who can apply?

Council tenants who hold a secure tenancy and who have been public sector tenants for at least two years. In very limited circumstances, you may not qualify for the Right to Buy (for example, where the property is a bungalow and was let to you after the age of 60)

How much will it cost?

The council does not make a charge, other than the sale price. However, there will be other costs such as solicitors fees, valuation fees and mortgage arrangement fees once you have decided to purchase the property.

How long will the whole process take?

Up to one month to confirm eligibility and a further two months to an offer of sale. From this point onwards, it depends on how quickly the tenant wishes to complete the sale, how quickly solicitors can complete the paperwork and how quickly the tenant can arrange a mortgage.

Links to forms, leaflets and websites providing more information

Department for Communities and Local Government

Common Questions

Q. Do I have a right to buy my council house?
A. If you have a minimum of 2 years as a secure tenant. For new tenancies beginning on or after 18 January 2005 the qualifying period is a minimum of 5 years. You may not have a right to buy if the property is a bungalow or ground floor flat and you were 60 or over when you moved in.

Q. Only my name is on the rent card. Can my spouse/family member exercise a right to buy?
A. Not in his/her own right. They can, however, be a sharing member if they have lived with you for the previous 12 months and it is their only home, this allows for additional names to be included in the sale documentation.

Q. How much will it cost me?
A. It won't cost anything to find out a purchase price. If you decide to purchase you will have to pay your own solicitors fees, survey fees and mortgage costs.

Q. Can I change my mind once I have applied?
A. You can change your mind at any stage before you complete the purchase.

Q. Will the Council give me a mortgage?
A. No, the Council does not offer mortgages. Your local bank, building society or a financial advisor can help you arrange a mortgage.

Q. Do I need a solicitor?
A. Once you have decided to buy you will need a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer.

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Contact Details

If you have any queries about the information provided above, or require further information, please contact Customer Services on 01775 761161 or email info@sholland.gov.uk.

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