The rental process
Learn more about finding a home with Bernicia, including how to apply and what to expect.
Bernicia waiting listApplying for a Property
You should apply to both Bernicia’s direct waiting list and the relevant Local Authority housing register. Most Local Authorities use a Choice Based Lettings scheme, which advertises available homes. If you see a suitable property, you can place a bid to show that you are interested. Bidding does not involve money, and properties are normally offered according to housing need and priority.
Before a property offer is made, we will carry out a pre-tenancy assessment (usually a home visit). During this process, you will need to provide:
- Proof of identity (e.g. passport, driving licence, birth certificate, or leave to remain documents)
- Proof of your address and address history
- Your National Insurance number
- Details of everyone in your household.
We will also review your financial situation, including:
- Income and savings (to confirm social housing is suitable)
- Rent affordability
- Any history of rent arrears or outstanding debts.
If you are successful and receive an offer, you will need to consider the following:
- Purchasing your own furniture, including white goods (e.g. washing machine, fridge freezer)
- Covering the cost of flooring throughout the property
- Paying rent in advance.
Properties are often pre-allocated, meaning they may not be ready to move into immediately. This gives you time to prepare.
- Your Housing Officer will keep you updated on when to expect your keys
- Once the property is ready, you will be invited to a viewing. If you need time to decide, you will have 24 hours to accept or decline the offer
- Rent will be charged from the date you sign the tenancy agreement. Payment options will be discussed at sign-up.
To be allocated a housing association property, you must:
- Be registered with either Bernicia, the relevant Local Authority or both
- Provide proof of identity and income
- Complete a pre-tenancy assessment
- Be prepared to furnish your own home
- Be aware that keys may not be available immediately after an offer is made.
Choice Based Lettings – The choice-based lettings scheme (CBL) gives people the chance to choose which housing association home they want. It works on a bidding system as and when properties become available.
When you find a property that you like and is also suitable for your needs, you then make a “bid” (or application) to be considered as a tenant for it. You must register with a CBL to bid on any of our properties. Here are the regional CBLs:
*Sunderland City Council do not operate a Choice Based Lettings Scheme but do have nomination rights for Bernicia Homes vacancies.
Bernicia holds a waiting list for properties that aren’t let through a Choice Based Letting Scheme. To join the waiting list please complete our Housing Application Form online or email contact@bernicia.com
Moving Soon is where we advertise our homes that are available immediately.
Please see Find a home with MovingSoon
