Downsizing your property
If your household changes you may find yourself in a larger property than you need. We can help you move to a more affordable place to live that better meets your needs.
We’ll cover your moving costs. And, by downsizing, you’ll free up a larger home for a family on the waiting list.
You will get a cash incentive to downsize. If you move to a property with fewer bedrooms, your living costs could drop. We can help you move to a new location in Harrow or in neighbouring boroughs.
This is great if you want to move closer to friends and family members.
Benefits of moving to smaller property:
- a smaller home could be more manageable
- lower running costs
- Help with the removal costs for council tenants only
- You will get high priority on the Locata website.
When you downsize, you’ll get:
- a cash incentive for each bedroom you give up (£1,500 per bedroom)
- your moving costs covered in full
- all the help, advice and support you need.
Downsizing terms and conditions
The incentive is paid four weeks after your old tenancy ends. Any outstanding payments, such as rent arrears, will be taken from your cash incentive.
If your household or visitors have damaged your property, and this was not from wear and tear, you must repair the damage. Or, we will charge you for the repair.
If you have a secure tenancy, it will be protected. This is true if you transfer to another London Borough of Harrow property. If you move to a housing association property, you may be offered a similar tenancy.
Apply to downsize your property
To apply or find out more information you can call us on 07927 548346. You can email our under occupation co-ordinator on underoccupation@harrow.gov.uk.
Homefinder UK
Homefinder UK may be able to help you if you:
- are looking to move to be closer to work opportunities, family or friends
- need to move to provide or receive care or support
- want to downsize to a smaller property. For example, to reduce the impact of recent welfare reforms. Most opportunities are outside of London (not in the South East).
You may be eligible for the scheme if:
- you are a council tenant in Harrow or
- you are homeless and living in temporary accommodation.
If you're a private tenant or homeowner you will not be eligible.
Find out more on theHomefinder UK website.