First Come First Served
What is First Come First Served?
The homes we offer through our First Come First Served scheme are properties which have usually been advertised through the bidding system, but received no eligible bids. Where this happens, we will make them available on a first come first served basis. These properties are often age-banded studio and one-bedroom flats however we do sometimes advertise two and three bedroom properties in this way.
The properties are located throughout the City and can be provided by the Council or Housing Associations. Properties are offered to the first person on the housing register who places a bid and meets the minimum letting criteria.
In cases when there are no bidders for properties we may also change the eligibility criteria. For example, households that would only normally qualify for two bedroom properties may be allowed to bid for some three bedroom maisonettes. The advert will clearly state where this is the case.
However, if you are of working age and you bid for a property that is larger than you would normally qualify for, you may not be entitled to receive full housing benefit. In these cases we may carry out a financial assessment with you.
How Do I Apply?
To apply for these properties you must have an active housing application. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t been registered long as we offer properties to the first person who bids, regardless of waiting time or their band. You still have to meet our policy criteria and eligibility checks.
You can place a bid on the Property Shop website. This bid can be in addition to the other three bids that you are entitled to make during any bidding period. You will be contacted if you are successful.
What Happens If I Accept a Property?
If you accept a First Come First Served property your application will be cancelled as normal and you will be unable to re-apply for 2 years. However if you do re-apply after the 2 years has passed, your application can be backdated to match your original application. You would need to contact us to request this.
What Happens If I Refuse a Property?
If you refuse an offer of a property, you could be moved to a lower band or your application may be cancelled. You should therefore consider a property carefully before placing a bid.
If you have been awarded a priority for re-housing, you should contact your awarding Officer for advice before placing a bid or refusing a property. Failure to do so could lead to your priority being cancelled if we believe the offer would have been suitable for your needs.