Reviews and appeals

Disagree with our decision? You can ask for a review or appeal.

When you apply for help, we will assess your case. 

If you do not pass all four tests, this will limit the help we can offer you. 

This is often called getting a ‘negative decision’. We will send you a letter explaining our decision. 

You can read more information on the possible decisions we can make, and the help we may be able to offer in our leaflet Homeless? Threatened with homelessness.

If you do not agree with our decision, you can ask for a review.

Your right to a review

You have the right to ask for a review if you disagree with our decision about:

• your eligibility for homeless assistance
• our duty to help you as someone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness
• the suitability of the home we have offered you; this includes offers of temporary accommodation. 

How to ask for a review

Write a letter explaining why you disagree with the decision.

Send it to the Area Manager at the address on your decision letter.

If you do not know the address, your local housing office can send the letter for you.

It is a good idea to get advice when asking for a review of a negative homelessness decision. 

For more information and advice, you can visit:

Housing Rights (advice website)

Important deadlines

You must request a review within 40 days of getting our decision.

We may allow extra time if you have a good reason for the delay.

We will let you know the outcome within 56 days.

County court appeal

If you are not happy with the review decision, you can appeal to the county court on a point of law within 28 days.

If the court thinks you have a good reason for missing this deadline, you may still be allowed to appeal.