A new online housing applications system, which will make applying to join Harlow Council’s Housing Needs Register quicker and easier, launches next month.
The new system is being introduced as part of the overhaul of the council’s Housing Allocations Policy, which was introduced in April 2024, to ensure that local homes go to local people in housing need. Since the changes came into effect, work has been taking place to get the new system ready for use from Monday 4 November 2024.
The introduction of the new system is part of the final phase of implementing the new allocations policy.
From 4 November, existing applicants will need to use this system to register their details in order to remain on the register. All applicants currently in bands 1-3 are being written to with details of how to do this. We have also written to those in band 4 notifying them that they are no longer on the register and inviting them to re-apply if they feel they still have a housing need under the new criteria. New applications can also be submitted using this new housing application system from the 4 November.
Once details have been registered the council’s Housing team will assess housing need based on the new policy. Applicants who remain on the register will not lose any waiting time, and can continue to bid on housing via Harlow Homefinder.
Councillor David Carter, cabinet portfolio holder for housing, said:
“The changes we made to the council’s Housing Allocations Policy were the biggest shakeup in a generation of how we allocate council housing in Harlow, and aim to ensure that local homes go to local people. This new online system is the final step of the process completed and will make it quicker and simpler to apply for council housing, and the new criteria ensures that those who are most in need have better access to council housing.
“One of our missions is to transform Harlow’s housing, and that includes the processes around securing a home as well as the homes themselves – we’re determined to deliver on this mission and to make the council’s housing system work better for our residents.”