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.
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
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.
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.
Moving Soon is where we advertise our homes that are available immediately.
Please see Find a home with MovingSoon
Before a property is re-let, we complete all required inspections and safety checks, including fire, gas and electrical assessments. Any necessary repair or improvement work is carried out to ensure the home is safe, compliant and suitable for occupation.
We will not compromise on safety or compliance to achieve a quicker turnaround.
An empty property is a home that is temporarily unoccupied between tenancies. An empty home can also sometimes be referred to as a “void” property. We work quickly to get empty homes ready for new customers.
We make sure each home is safe, meets the required standards and is ready for someone to move in, settle down and become part of a thriving community. This helps us make the best use of our homes, support our communities and provide good-quality places to live.
Empty properties can deteriorate quickly and may become vulnerable to damage, fly-tipping and vandalism. During the void period, we take steps to maintain the property and surrounding areas, helping protect both the home and the wider neighbourhood.
By addressing issues promptly and returning homes to use quickly, we help reduce future repair costs, maintain housing standards and maximise the homes available to our communities.
We aim to inspect empty homes within three working days of a tenancy ending. This helps us identify any repairs, safety checks or improvements needed before the property can be re-let.
We know every day a home is empty is a missed opportunity to house someone. That’s why we work to minimise turnaround times without compromising on safety, quality or the experience of the incoming customer.
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.
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.
If you have concerns about an empty Bernicia property, such as fly-tipping, damage or security issues, please contact us on 0344 800 3800 so we can investigate and take the right action.
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.
