The Right to Buy (external link) is a government scheme to allow secure council tenants to buy their council house or flat.
Who can Apply?
Your most likely eligible if you are a secure council tenant and have spent 3 years or more as a public sector tenant (please note that this 3-year period does not need to be continuous). To class as a public sector tenant your landlord must be a public body be that the council, a housing association or government department.
You must also have no legal issues with debt or outstanding possession orders to be eligible. It is important to be aware that some homes are exempt from this scheme and eligibility will have to be confirmed by your landlord as part of the initial application process.
Is this right for me?
You must remember buying a home is big commitment and long term investment. To decide if buying your home is right for you, you need to consider if you can afford it as mortgage repayments are not the only costs you will be responsible for,especially if it is a leasehold flat (external link) (as you may have service charges to pay):
To help you reach your decision the government has a team of independent advisors (external link) who are there to help you make the right choice.
How do I apply?
If you think the Right to Buy is right for you, you will need to complete an application form.
I have purchased my council flat how do I pay the service charges?
If you have purchased your council flat you will still need to pay the buildings service charges.
If you pay online you will need to select the 'housing rent' option. Your reference/account is the 9-digit reference number that appears on your service charge invoices beginning with an '8'.