Temporary accommodation frequently asked questions

What is temporary accommodation and why have you placed me in it?

When you make a homeless application, we may decide to place you in temporary accommodation while we consider your application. Because there is not much temporary accommodation around, this might not fit all of your needs.

If you refuse this accommodation, you may have to find your own place to live.

Do I have to pay rent and bills for temporary accommodation?

Yes you must pay both.

Rent

When you first move in to temporary accommodation, you will be told how much rent you have to pay.

If it is appropriate, we will help you make a claim for a housing benefit. Until your housing benefit application has been processed, you must pay the whole cost yourself. The benefit cap may mean that not all your rent is covered by housing benefit.

It is important that you respond to any letters the Housing Benefit team send you about your claim. They may need you to supply more information so they can process your claim. Please make sure you provide all documents they ask for so we can process your claim as fast as possible and avoid building up arrears.

You must keep up with your payments. Please contact us as soon as you can if you are struggling to pay your rent so we can see how we can help.

Bills

You must pay for your:

• gas
• electricity
• water
• council tax.

If you are on benefits or a low income, you may be able to get Council Tax Support to help you pay your bill.

Can I bring my belongings with me?

You can bring small items with you like bedding, kitchen utensils a TV or radio, clothing, toys and other essentials. But you may be moved to another temporary accommodation at any time and will have to take all your belongings with you.

You cannot bring any items of furniture or white goods such as a fridge or washing machine. If you have furniture or white goods, please talk to your caseworker who can discuss storage options with you.

Can family and friends visit me?

You can receive visitors during the day. Visitors can't stay overnight.

Am I allowed to stay away overnight?

If you have to stay away overnight, you must let your temporary accommodation officer know.

If you need to stay away for more than two nights, for example if you have to go into hospital, you may have to give up this accommodation and
be booked back into other temporary accommodation on your return.

What if I need something repaired?

The provider of the temporary accommodation is responsible for any repairs that need to be done to the property. You will be told who the provider is and how to get in contact with them if a repair is needed.

If my case is agreed, how long will I have to wait before I get a settled home?

Unfortunately, there can be a wait of several years for family-sized housing. Most council accommodation in Islington is on large estates and this is the type of accommodation we will offer you. We encourage you to work with your prevention officer to consider all the housing options on your Personal Housing Plan even if your case is agreed.

Many families have found a home quicker by registering on Homefinder UK, which advertises council homes across the country.

If you refuse more than one offer of accommodation that the council considers suitable for your needs, you may have to find your own home without our help.