Housing associations

Housing associations are independent not-for-profit bodies that own and let homes throughout the country. They share the common aim of providing housing for many different sectors of the community. A housing association may be a charity, a registered industrial and provident society or both.

How Housing Associations are run

Housing associations are formed and run by a committee or Board members who generally give their time voluntarily. Most housing associations in the Wycombe District have staff to manage their day to day running.

Types of Housing Association properties

The type of housing is governed by the needs of the people who will live in it. It may be newly built, or an older property which the association improves or converts.
Most housing association property is self-contained but some is designed to be shared. For example, shared houses or hostels may be run for single people or people who need extra support.
Some housing associations have properties available for shared ownership (part buy - part rent). Please see the Catalyst Homebuy website below.

Housing Association tenancies

The majority of new housing association tenants will have an introductory or starter tenancy for a period of a year. After a year the tenant may be given an assured tenancy, which could be for a fixed term period. It is important for anyone considering a housing association tenancy to check the terms and conditions.

Claiming benefits

If you are on a low income you can claim help with your rent. Contact your housing association or local council for more information.

Buying a Housing Association property

Some housing association tenants have the right to acquire. Ask the housing association you are interested in if they operate this scheme.