Oxford Register for Affordable Housing (ORAH)

We have formed a partnership with Housing Associations who have properties in Oxford so that most social rented properties are let through one single housing register.

How do I apply to to go on the General Register?

If you want to apply to go on the register you should ask for an application form from the Housing Needs Team using the contact details on the right of this page. Or contact one of the partner housing associations details of which can be found on the ORAH contacts page.

We will be pleased to help if you need any help in completing the form. It is important the form is completed as fully as possible as this may affect the priority you are given.

Applications are assessed in line with our Allocations scheme using a banding system. Information about the full Allocations scheme can be found in the documents below:

Allocations Scheme document (348kB PDF)

Summary Allocations Scheme document (217kB PDF)

Being on the register does not guarantee you will be housed, especially if you are in a low band.

What information will I need to provide?

The information you need to provide is listed on the application form.

You will need to show some original documents as evidence, for example passport or birth certificate.

All information will be treated as confidential, although information may be shared if we need to check against fraud or follow up information about your housing needs.

Action will be taken against applicants found to have been fraudulently applying for accommodation or not giving full details as to their circumstances.

If your circumstances change whilst you are waiting on the register you must notify the Housing Needs Team at the Council and a form is available for you to do this.

A change of circumstance includes a change of address or family changes such as the birth of children.

Do I need to do anything whilst I am waiting?

You will be required to re-register annually. A form will be sent out to enable you to do this.

You must notify us if your circumstances change at any point.

I am already a tenant with the Council or a Housing Association but would like to move

There are five options:

A transfer to another council or housing association property through the Oxford Register for Affordable Housing (for Transfers).
A swap with another tenant who lives in a council or housing association property in the City through the Mutual Exchange Scheme.
A swap with a resident of a council or housing association tenant who lives in a different local authority area.
Through the private sector with help to move into home ownership through Homebuy or finding a privately rented property via the Council's Home Choice scheme.
If your housing association landlord is not an ORAH partner: either as a transfer within your landlord's stock or a general register application.

Transfers via the Oxford Register for Affordable Housing

Any existing Council or partner housing association tenant living in Oxford City can apply. However your application is only likely to be approved if:

You do not have a current court order against your for rent arrears or anti-social behaviour.
You are living in your property as your main home.

If you want to move because of problems with anti-social behaviour, problems with repairs or because you need your property to be adapted, a transfer may not be the best option and you should speak to your own landlord for advice.

How do I apply to go on the Transfer Register?

You can obtain a transfer form from your landlord's local office. Please see the ORAH contacts page for details.

This should be completed and returned to your landlord.

Once you have done this your landlord will ensure the form and any accompanying evidence are fully completed and will send it to the Housing Needs Team at Oxford City Council who will put your details on the register.

It is useful to discuss your housing needs with your Housing Officer or Estate Manager as they will be able to advise you and can help you complete the form.

You should consider other options that might help you find a more suitable home such as the Mutual Exchange Scheme. The form to do this is included in your transfer application form.

Incentive Scheme for Under-Occupying tenants

If you are an Oxford City Council tenant and you live in a family-sized property and are prepared to move to a smaller property you may be eligible for compensation plus certain other expenses. For more information please see the leaflet below:

Incentive Scheme for Under-Occupying Tenants (177kB PDF)

Please note some housing associations may run similar schemes.