Choice based Lettings FAQs
The following questions and answers are frequently asked
regarding Choice Based Lettings in Broxbourne.
How many expressions of interest can I make in a fortnightly
cycle?
Each applicant can make an expression of interest for up to
three properties per fortnight.
Where can I get copies of the list advertising empty
properties?
The lists will be available at:
Can I change my mind about an expression of interest I have
made?
Yes, you can change your mind about a bid you have made, but you
must do this before the cycle closes. The user guide you will be
sent will explain this process to you.
How will I know if I have been successful?
If your expression of interest in a property has been successful
we will contact you and may arrange to visit you in your home to
verify your circumstances. If you do not hear from us then
your choices have not been successful. To ensure
confidentiality, details by points of the successful bidder will
be
stated in the feedback section in the freesheet for the next
bidding cycle.
Would I be more at an advantage if I made an expression of
interest using the internet as opposed to by phone or post?
No, the method you choose to express an interest will not
influence who is successful or unsuccessful. Equally, whether
you express an interest on the first or last day of the cycle, this
will not put you at an advantage or a
disadvantage.
I do not have a computer but would like to participate using
the internet
From the consultation exercise carried out in February 2008, we
understand that using the Internet or telephone are the preferred
methods to participate in this scheme. Whilst many people may have
access to the phone, it is recognised this may not be the case for
the internet. To ensure everyone who is entitled to bid has a
fair and equal opportunity to do so, the Council has installed
computers in One Stop Shops, and the reception area at
Bishops' College to allow expressions of interest under CBL to be
made. In addition, staff will be on hand to provide
assistance.
NextStep at Waltham Cross,
have agreed to allow applicants on the housing register and
transfer list free access to their computers to make expressions of
interest. However, before doing this you would need to
register with NextStep, which is free and would take approximately
20 minutes to do. Once you have completed the registration process
(which you only have to do once) you can have access to the
Internet and any other IT courses NextStep run.
I may need support in making an 'expression of interest' -
where can I get help?
We will make arrangements to ensure that you are not
disadvantaged by CBL if you need support. We will ensure that
you can register your interest in a variety of suitable ways, and
we will be working with other organisations to ensure that the
support you require is in place and is free.
Under CBL will I get a property quicker than under the previous
allocations scheme?
No, under this scheme, there will not be additional properties
available. The purpose of the CBL scheme is to provide
applicants with transparency as to how properties are
allocated and greater choice as to where they would like to
live.
If you require any further information or need a user guide in
another language, large print or a different format, then please
contact the Council's Housing needs section by phone on 01992
785505 or email housingneeds@broxbourne.gov.uk.