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Scotland

From 1st October 2025, the Shelter Legal - Scotland pages will no longer be available. We still offer housing advice and professional resources.

Applying for social housing

Social housing is affordable housing rented out by councils, housing associations and housing cooperatives. It is sometimes called council housing.

When you rent social housing you’ll get a long-term tenancy with strong rights.

When you apply for social housing you’ll be added to a waiting list, sometimes called a housing list. The waiting time depends on your circumstances and housing needs.

You'll usually get higher priority if you have urgent housing needs.

Last updated: 24 July 2024

Housing laws differ between Scotland and England.

This content applies to Scotland only.

Get advice if you're in England