What You Need to Know About Emergency and Temporary Accommodation in the UK

This guide explains the differences between emergency and temporary accommodation, your rights, and what to expect from the council’s housing assistance.

Emergency Accommodation vs. Temporary Accommodation

Emergency accommodation and temporary accommodation serve different purposes and come with different rights and expectations. Understanding these distinctions is key to navigating your housing situation effectively.

Emergency Accommodation

The council must provide emergency accommodation immediately if they believe you:

• May be homeless
• May be eligible for help
• May be in priority need

Emergency accommodation, also known as interim accommodation, is a short-term solution while the council assesses your eligibility for longer-term housing. This decision should be made within two months, although it often takes longer.

Possible emergency accommodation includes:

• Hostels
• Properties with shared or no cooking facilities (e.g., B&Bs run by social landlords or the council)
• Privately run B&Bs (not for families with children)
• Hotels
• Self-contained units like bedsits, flats, or houses (if you’re fortunate)

Emergency accommodation is typically basic and may not meet all your needs. Refusing the offered accommodation can end the council’s legal duty to assist you. Rights in emergency accommodation are limited, and eviction can occur with minimal notice, especially for threatening or violent behavior.

Licences vs. Tenancy Agreements

• Licences: Permission from the landlord to stay in their property. Common in hostels, B&Bs, hotels, or shelters. Easier to revoke than tenancies.
• Tenancy Agreements: Usually involve paying rent, a set duration, and exclusive space. Tenants have more rights, including repairs and notice periods, but can still be asked to move on short notice.

Knowing your landlord (council, private individual, or housing association) is essential, particularly in emergencies. Keep a copy of your licence or tenancy agreement for reference.

Temporary Accommodation

If the council determines they have a legal duty to house you (the ‘main housing duty’), you’ll be offered temporary accommodation. This decision should be communicated in writing.

Ideally, temporary accommodation is more stable and suitable for longer-term living. However, due to housing shortages, it may resemble emergency accommodation and require lengthy waits for a permanent home. Temporary accommodation can include:

• Bedsits, flats, or houses
• Properties in or out of your local area (depending on availability)

Your rights in temporary accommodation depend on whether you have a licence or tenancy agreement. You can request a review if the accommodation is unsuitable for your needs. Temporary accommodation aims to provide a more permanent solution, such as a private rental (minimum 12 months) or social housing tenancy.

Understanding these differences and your rights can help you better comprehend the housing system more effectively and advocate for suitable living arrangements during this challenging time.