Applying for Housing Register FAQs
1. I do not have a computer/or internet access
a) Do you have a friend, family member or a support worker who can help you?
b) There are lots of self help computers available to the public in Maidstone - View where you can gain computer access.
c) Maidstone Borough Council’s office also has two computers. These can be used for Maidstone websites only.
2. I don’t know how to use a computer?
a) Do you have a friend, family member or a support worker who can help you?
b) A floor walker in Maidstone Borough Council’s office can get you set up on the computer to get you started. Please note computer access here is limited.
c) Some of the public computers in Maidstone also provide a buddy system to help you - View where you can find a buddy to help you.
3. I struggle to read or write
a) Do you have a friend, family member or a support worker who can help you?
b) A floor walker in Maidstone Borough Council’s office can get you set up on the computer to get you started. If you need more support please call us on 01622 602440 to book an appointment, to be assisted with your application.
c) If you would like a course to help you learn, please contact us and we can provide you with some information.
4. I’m blind
a) Do you have a friend, family member or a support worker who can help you?
b) Please call Kent Association for the Blind on 01622 691357 as they may be able to help.
c) If you don’t have someone to support you please call us on 01622 602440 to book an appointment, to be assisted with your application.
5. I have mental health problems, l don’t feel comfortable going online
a) Do you have a friend, family member or a support worker who can help you?
b) Please call Maidstone Mind on 01622 692383 as they may be able to assist.
c) If you don’t have someone to support you please call us on 01622 602440 to book an appointment, to be assisted with your application.
6. I can’t log on to my Kent Homechoice account?
a) Passwords and usernames are case sensitive - for example if your password is Maidstone and you are typing in MAIDSTONE it won’t be recognised.
b) If you have forgotten your password, you can reset it on the Kent Homechoice website - Kent Homechoice Login
c) If your username or email address is not being recognised please contact the Housing Team
7. Can I apply to other councils too?
Yes you can however, the Local Authority you are applying to will tell you directly whether you are eligible and meet their qualifying criteria.
8. I don’t want any correspondence going to my address can l give a care of address?
Yes, the online application lets you supply c/o address details after filling in the initial address details. Please follow the online instructions.
9. When will l know if l am accepted on the housing register?
You will usually be notified 4-6 weeks after your initial application.
10. I am in immediate danger of domestic abuse?
If you are in immediate danger you must call the Police on 999. There is also a national domestic abuse helpline you could call on 0808 2000 247, or the men’s advice line on 0808 801 0327.
If you are concerned about your housing circumstances please call us on 01622 602440 to speak to a housing advisor.
11. I’m going to be made homeless, what do I do?
Information on what to do if you are going to be made homeless can be found here - homeless or at risk
12. I didn’t supply my documents/proofs within the time provided, do l have to reapply?
Yes, you would have received a letter or email from us telling you which documents you would have needed to provide and if your application has been refused as they were not received in time.
13. I have previously been removed or refused entry to the housing register. Can I reapply?
Yes, you can reapply by completing an online application form. However, if you were previously refused and your circumstances have not significantly changed, it is unlikely that you will be accepted - Click Here to reapply
14. My circumstances have changed, how long before my application gets updated?
a) You will need to tell us of any changes in your circumstances. You can do this by updating your Kent Homechoice account.
b) The changes may require a reassessment of whether you still meet the council’s eligibility criteria
c) If you have supplied all the necessary proofs and evidence your application will normally be updated in 2-4 weeks.
15. I will not be able to supply a specific proof in time?
If you are unable to provide some of the documentation required to support your application, please contact us before the deadline given so that your application is not refused.
16. Why can’t l see all the available properties?
a) Properties are advertised between the four bands. Some properties will not be available to the band you are placed in.
b) The property may not be suitable for your household size due to the number and size of the bedrooms.
17. My Kent Homechoice Account states that I am in the top 5 in the bidding. Will I be offered the property?
If you are successful, the Housing Provider will contact you directly, usually within 2 weeks.
18. How long will it take to get a property?
There is a limited supply of social housing within the borough and the supply is always much less than the need. How long you will wait will depend on several factors including your household size, the band you are placed in, any specific needs your household may have and how many areas within the borough you are willing to consider moving too. Your Kent Homechoice feedback page shows your ranking compared to other applicants when you have placed a bid on a property.
19. I have been told that my medical / welfare / hardship housing need is being assessed. How long will this take?
To be accepted on to the housing register, you will have to have a housing need. Sometimes a further assessment needs to be undertaken by an officer. If this is necessary, you will be informed of this and you should be notified of the decision within 4 weeks.
20. I am not happy with the decision made. How do l get a review or reassessment done?
If you do not agree with a decision concerning your housing register application or account, you can request a review. Generally you have 21 days from being notified of the decision to ask for a review but this varies. For full details of how to request a review please see our allocation scheme.