Council tenants with one or more spare bedrooms can apply for our voluntary downsizing scheme. We can also provide assistance to housing association tenants.
Larger properties are in higher demand for families. Downsizing to a smaller home means your property becomes available to a family that needs it.
The scheme provides practical support and prioritisation to tenants who wish to transfer to smaller, manageable and more affordable homes. There is also an incentive package for council tenants. We do not offer the incentive package to housing association tenants.
Incentives for council tenants:
- full decoration of the property you will be moving to, in the colours of your choice
- £1,000 cash incentive
- new carpets in two rooms of your choice if you are giving up two or more bedrooms (for example, moving from a four-bedroom to two-bedroom property, or a three-bedroom to one-bedroom property)
- handy person service (for eligible tenants) to assist you with:
- fitting curtain rails and blinds
- fitting bathroom accessories
- assembling flat-packed furniture
- other small tasks that can help you make your new property a home
We will help relieve the stress of moving to a new home by:
- organising your removals or paying up to £300 if you arrange your own removals (invoice required)
- helping reconnect of your appliances
Property types:
- general need housing (including flats, maisonettes, houses, bungalows and homes on new developments)
- older people dwelling (properties that are more suitable for applicants aged 50 and over)
- sheltered housing
- a property in the Seaside & Country Homes scheme
Eligibility
You may qualify if you:
- live in a two, three or more bedroom council property (flat, maisonette, bungalow or house)
- have a satisfactory tenancy report
If you have rent arrears, you should seek help to pay your rent before applying to downsize.
After you apply
A dedicated housing officer is available to assist you with your application and answer any further questions you may have. You will discuss the types of homes that you could downsize to.
We will provide you up to three suitable offers. We will accompany you to help you make a choice if you need it.
Depending on your housing needs and availability of suitable properties, we can arrange a viewing within a few months. Sometimes it can take a little longer. We will work to identify suitable homes for applicants as quickly as possible.
This is a voluntary scheme and you are free to change your mind at any stage.
More information
- email: downsizing@hounslow.gov.uk
- phone: 0208 583 4452
Buying a smaller property
If you wish to move and buy your own smaller property, our home ownership team may be able to help you.
