Renewal Process (from 1 May 2026)
We are updating the Housing Register, so it remains fair, consistent and fit for purpose.
From 1 May 2026, if you are on the housing register, we will ask you to complete a simple renewal through your online account. This helps make sure our information up to date and that you are in the right band under our new housing allocation policy.
View our new housing allocation policy. It will come into effect on 1 September 2026
You won’t need to re-apply or reregister. Most people will only need to confirm that nothing has changed. If something has changed, such as your address, income or household you can tell us in the renewal, and we will send actions asking for the documents required.
If you do not complete your renewal within the 20-day timeframe, your application will be closed.
If you no longer wish to remain on the housing register, please email our team: [email protected] and we will close your application.
Banding Changes (moving from A–D to 1–4)
We are introducing a clearer banding system that uses numbers instead of letters. Many people will remain in the same level of priority, but your band may look different because of the new numbering.
Because some categories have been widened, more people may be placed in the same band. This may mean that shortlist positions change, even if your priority remains the same.
Financial Assessment Changes
We are moving to a clearer way of assessing household finances. Instead of using one combined income and savings limit, we now look at each separately.
You may not qualify for the register if your savings are above £16,000 (£23,500 if you have assessed care needs) or your income is above £60,000 a year.
During renewal, we may ask for updated financial information so we can apply the new rules fairly and consistently.
Local Connection Test (new 2-year rule)
We have simplified the local connection requirements, so they are clearer and fairer.
Most applicants will now need to show a 2-year connection to the Dorset Council area through living here, working here, or having close family here.
There are some exemptions to the 2-year local connection rule, for example, applicants fleeing domestic abuse, or those in the UK armed forces.
Over 55s with no local connection
Everyone will now need to meet the same local connection requirements, including applicants aged 55 and over who previously had no local connection.
This means living, working, or having close family in the Dorset Council area for at least 2 years, unless exempt through homelessness legislation.
Overcrowding assessment changes
This means some households who were previously classed as overcrowded will no longer meet that definition, even though their bedroom entitlement stays the same.
This makes sure that families living in genuinely overcrowded or unsafe conditions are prioritised.
If there is someone in your family that has a need for their own bedroom exemptions will continue to apply.
Ability to bid during the changes
You can continue to bid for homes throughout the renewal period, even if you have not yet received your new banding.
If you are shortlisted for a property before your renewal is complete, we will prioritise your assessment to make sure the nomination is still applicable.
What happens before go live (1 September 2026)
From the 1 September 2026, the new policy will go live, and we will switch from the old banding system to the new one. The register will not close, new applications can still be made, properties will continue to be advertised, and you will be able to bid on advertised properties.
We will continue to work our way through all the renewals.