Specified accommodation
Where accommodation has been categorised as specified accommodation, this allows exemptions from the rules restricting how much rent is used in the benefit calculation. This means tenants can get higher levels of benefit.
How to apply for specified accommodation status
Applications can only be made by the landlord or property owner. To register accommodation as specified accommodation status, the landlord or property owner should fill in our online specified accommodation form.
There are four categories of specified accommodation.
To count as 'exempt accommodation', all of the following must apply:
- the accommodation is provided by either:
- an English non-metropolitan county council
- a housing association
- a not-for-profit voluntary organisation
- a registered charity
- the care, support and supervision is provided by either:
- the accommodation provider
- someone acting on behalf of the accommodation provider
- the level of care, support and supervision is more than 'minimal'
Managed properties are where care, support and supervision is provided by an organisation or individual other than the accommodation provider. For tenants in managed properties, the claimant must have entered the accommodation in order to get care, support and supervision.
Accommodation to provide temporary housing plus care and support for people escaping domestic violence.
Accommodation to provide short-term housing on a temporary basis for claimants living in hostels that provide care, support and supervision.