Non-ISHA tenants need to apply via their local council – You may be given advice only, if not deemed to be in priority need
ISHA tenants – can apply for an internal transfer or mutual exchange

What happens when I am offered a property?

An offer will be made to the applicant by telephone or in writing
We will arrange viewing when the property is void
An appointment will be made to view the property with the Allocation and Voids Officer
Once the applicant has accepted the offer and on completion of the void's works, the tenancy agreement will be signed and the keys handed over
The Allocation and Void Officer will give a welcome pack for the new resident to sign

Can I purchase the property that I am in – do I have the right to Acquire?

Demolition – If you receive a demolition notice your right to buy is suspended for up to 5 years

Homes Suitable for occupation by elderly persons – This is one of the most common exceptions to the right to buy
Other exceptions to the right to buy – There is quite a long list of these, but you should have been notified at the start of your tenancy if they apply

When you tell us that you wish to sell your home we will instruct an independent valuer approved by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors to determine the new value of your home (you will have to meet the costs of this valuation)
You then inform us you are happy with the valuation upon which we shall norminate a purchaser for your share
The price you sell your property to the nominee must not be higher than this valuation
To ensure your home can be made available to others who cannot afford to buy outright, we will for a short period have the right to find a buyer for your home. The small fee for this is normally less than you would pay an estate agent
If we are unable to find a purchaser within your lease, then you are free to make your own arrangements to sell your home

When installing satellite dishes/television aerials and other electrical services you will require our consent in writing. You will also need to comply with any conditions imposed by us in any such consent
Note that there may be local restrictions in place - contact your local council planning department for details
When satellite dishes are installed without our permission, we will remove the equipment and you will be charged for the cost of removal and any other expenses

Sheltered properties and some flats will include some charges for services to communal areas, wardens etc.
Service charges (and any other charges) would be shown separately
Residents are responsible for all other bills, services and council tax
Service charges tend not to apply to houses but do apply to flats and maisonettes

cheque (addressed to ISHA)
debit or credit card which can be used over the telephone or in the office
Standing Orders, or even better Direct Debit, which are set up via your bank account
Swipe Card (which can be used at any shop with the pay point logo)
You can also pay on-line, via our website, using your Swipe Card

If you do not get written permission from us first, you may have to put the property back into its original state at your own cost
We would not unreasonably refuse permission unless it will make the property less safe, decrease its value or increase maintenance costs
Residents should ensure that they do not break any building, planning or health and safety regulations
We may attach conditions relating to the standard of workmanship
Your builder must have appropriate insurance in the event that damage is incurred to the property. We will need a copy of this before the work is started
For your own benefit, make sure you get at least 3 written quotes and keep the paperwork
It is your responsibility to maintain any alterations or additions
If you end your tenancy you may be entitled to compensation for improvements, if you have followed the correct procedure