Changing your tenancy

Apply to sublet your council home

If you plan to be away from your home for a long period, you may be able to sublet it to someone else. You must get our written permission before you do this. This page explains when subletting is allowed, what your responsibilities are, and how to apply.

When you can apply

You can only apply to sublet if your home has been your only or main home for at least 12 months before you make your written request.

Any joint tenant, partner, or other person living with you must also agree in writing. We will contact them to confirm this.

Your responsibilities while subletting

Even if someone else lives in your home, you remain the tenant. This means you are still responsible for:

paying the rent on time
keeping the property in good condition
the behaviour of the person subletting, their household, and visitors

You should think carefully about how you will manage your tenancy while you are away.

How long subletting is allowed

If we approve your request, permission is for a fixed period. This is usually up to six months and no longer than twelve months.

Applying does not guarantee permission, but we only refuse if there is a clear reason. We will write to you with our decision within 28 days.

Before applying, read the guide for council tenants page so you understand your responsibilities.

How to apply

We cannot process your request until both forms are complete:

You, as the tenant, complete the apply to sublet form
The person who wants to rent your home completes the apply to move into a sublet form

Take action

Check you meet the conditions to sublet
Read the guide for council tenants
Submit both application forms

The tenant should complete this form:

Apply to sublet

The person who wants to rent your home should complete this form:

Apply to move into a sublet