In recent years, the issue of whether housing association tenants have the right to buy has been a topic of debate and discussion. Previously, the right to buy scheme only applied to tenants of council-owned properties, allowing them to purchase their homes at a discounted rate. However, there have been significant changes in legislation that have expanded this right to housing association tenants as well.
Do housing association tenants now have the right to buy?
Yes, housing association tenants do now have the right to buy their homes, thanks to the implementation of the Voluntary Right to Buy (VRTB) scheme. This is a policy enacted by the UK government with the aim of providing affordable housing and homeownership opportunities for housing association tenants.
The Voluntary Right to Buy scheme aims to give eligible housing association tenants in England the chance to purchase their properties at a discounted rate. The level of discount available will be dependent on the location of the property and the length of time the tenant has been a housing association tenant.
1. How does the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme work?
The Voluntary Right to Buy scheme allows eligible housing association tenants to apply for a discount on the market value of their property. This discount can be used as a deposit towards the purchase.
2. Who is eligible for the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme?
To be eligible for the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme, tenants must have a secure tenancy and have been a housing association tenant for at least three years. They also need to meet certain criteria related to immigration status and debt.
3. How much discount can housing association tenants expect?
The level of discount offered under the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme varies depending on the location of the property. In London, the maximum discount available is £112,300, while outside London it is £84,200.
4. How can tenants application be made through the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme?
Tenants can express their interest in the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme by contacting their housing association to obtain an application form and discuss their eligibility.
5. Are there any limitations or restrictions under the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme?
Some restrictions apply to the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme. For example, housing associations may have a limited number of properties available for sale at any given time. Additionally, certain properties, such as those specifically reserved for older people or disabled individuals, may be exempt from the scheme.
6. Will purchasing the property affect the tenant’s rights as a tenant?
Once a housing association tenant purchases their property through the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme, they will no longer have a tenancy agreement with the housing association. They will become homeowners and assume the associated rights and responsibilities.
7. Can tenants appeal if they are not eligible for the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme?
Tenants who believe they are eligible but have been denied the opportunity to participate in the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme can appeal the decision.
8. What happens if a housing association tenant sells their property after purchasing it through the scheme?
If a housing association tenant sells their property within the first five years of purchasing it through the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme, they may be required to repay a portion of the discount.
9. Can tenants apply for the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme if they have rent arrears?
Tenants with rent arrears can still apply for the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme, but it is essential to discuss any outstanding debt with the housing association to determine if it will affect eligibility.
10. Is the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme available in all parts of the UK?
No, the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme is currently only available in England. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have their own separate policies on the right to buy.
11. Can tenants purchase shared ownership properties through the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme?
No, the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme does not apply to shared ownership properties. Tenants of shared ownership properties should contact their housing association for information on alternative options.
12. How does the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme affect social housing availability?
The introduction of the Voluntary Right to Buy scheme raises concerns about the availability of social housing. As housing association tenants exercise their right to buy, it reduces the number of affordable rental properties available, potentially impacting those in need of social housing. The government has implemented measures to ensure additional homes are built to compensate for the loss of social housing stock.