Changes to who can join the Housing Register

Rochdale Council has introduced a new Housing Allocation Policy to make sure that the current limited supply of social housing is prioritised for those who need it most. Over the past six years, the number of homes available for re-letting has reduced by around a third, while demand has continued to grow. This means that, unfortunately, many applicants have had fewer opportunities to be rehoused.

We understand how challenging this can be, and that’s why the new policy is designed to focus support where it can make the greatest impact. Our aim is to ensure that households facing the most urgent housing needs receive the help they require, while continuing to work with all residents with their housing solutions, and partners to increase the availability of affordable homes across the borough.

The new policy will come into effect for new applicants from 1 November 2025. Here’s what you need to know:

What’s Changing?

From 1 November 2025, only applicants in a priority band will qualify to join the Housing Register. These are currently Bands A, B, and C (which will become Bands 1, 2, and 3 under the new policy).

You may not qualify if:

You have not lived in the Rochdale Borough for at least 2 years, or

You do not meet the criteria for a priority band

Who Is Exempt from the 2-Year Residency Rule?

Some applicants will still qualify even if they haven’t lived in the Rochdale Borough for 2 years. These include:

  • People fleeing domestic abuse or serious threats
  • Current or former members of the UK Armed Forces and their families
  • Care-experienced young people
  • Those who would face hardship if they couldn’t move to Rochdale (including social housing tenants eligible under the Right to Move)
  • Households at risk of homelessness where the Council has a duty to help

More People May Qualify for Priority Banding

We’re also making it easier for some households to qualify. For example, if your household is overcrowded by one bedroom, you’ll now be awarded Band C (Band 3 under the new policy). This means more people will be recognised as having a housing need.

Already on the Housing Register?

We’ll contact all current applicants directly using the email address on your application. If you’d prefer to be contacted another way, please let us know.

We understand these changes may affect many people, and we’re here to support you. We’ll explain your options and the help available when we get in touch.

  • Applicants in Bands D and E will be contacted from Autumn 2025
  • Applicants in Bands A to C will be contacted in early 2026

Thinking of Applying?

We want to be upfront with you. If you’re thinking of applying after 1st November 2025, please be aware that you may not qualify unless you meet the new criteria. We’re sharing this now to help you make an informed decision before starting your application.

How to Contact Us;

Telephone: 0300 303 8874

Email: housingsolutions@rochdale.gov.uk

Drop in: If you are unable to access help through the above it is possible to speak to us in person at:

  • Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale, OL16 2XU, or
  • Number 2, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1TU (number 2 is the Rochdale Housing Solutions building currently open 10.30 am to 2.30 pm Tuesday to Thursday).

No appointment is needed for drop ins just come along during opening hours and we’ll do our best to connect you with the most appropriate support.

Apply to Rochdale Housing Solutions

If you haven't already joined Rochdale Housing Solutions, you will need to do so before you can express an interest in the properties we advertise. You will need an email address to do this.

You will also need to provide 2 forms of ID and proof of current address for the applicant and all joint applicants, before we can register your application. If you do not provide this within 28 days of submitting your complete form, we will not be able to process your application and it will be cancelled. To apply click the 'Apply Now' button to get started.

You will be able to save the application form at any point and return later if you need further information to help you complete the form.

To return to complete an unfinished form, select 'Apply now' and you can then choose the option to 'Finish a partial application'.

If you are a council or housing association tenant and want to register for a mutual exchange, visit the mutual exchange page.