The council is inviting residents to take part in a 9-week consultation on proposed changes to its Social Housing Nominations Policy — the rules that guide how social housing is allocated in the town.
Complete the survey
The last update to this policy was in 2018, and since then, there have been major changes in housing law, government policy, as well as local demand and supply. As is the same across the country, the number of people wanting social housing has risen, while the number of available homes has fallen.
The council is updating the policy to ensure it is fair, up-to-date, and focuses on helping those with the greatest need — especially people with a strong connection to Watford.
The council want to hear resident’s views. The consultation is open until 5pm on Tuesday 8 July 2025. You can view the proposed policy, a summary of the changes, frequently asked questions, and take part in the online survey by visiting: surveymonkey.com/r/nominations-policy
These changes aim to make the system clearer, fairer, and better suited to current housing needs in Watford. Here are some of the key proposals :
- Homeless applicants – there would be greater priority for those ready to move on from supported accommodation and families in temporary housing for over 12 months.
- Private Rented Sector – people at risk of homelessness who take a private rental to avoid temporary accommodation can stay on the Housing Register and bid for social housing for three years.
- Damp and mould – extra priority will be given to applicants living in poor conditions where issues can’t be resolved while they remain in the home.
- New letting quotas – would ensure fairer access to homes across different groups, with quotas reviewed each year.
- Local connection rules – would be changed, making it easier for those who had to leave Watford temporarily — including care leavers and those in temporary accommodation — to join the Housing Register.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “Our top priority is to ensure that social housing in Watford supports local residents who need it most. It is important that Watford is a town for everyone who calls it home, from childhood right through to old age.
“This updated policy aims to create a fairer and more transparent nomination system in light of the challenges we are facing. I’d really encourage everyone to have their say and help us shape a policy that works for our whole community.”
