If the council placed you in temporary accommodation that is unsuitable, you have 21 days to ask for a suitability review. Here is how, and who can help.
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In short
Placed in temporary housing that does not work for you? You can ask for a "suitability review", usually within 21 days, in writing. This is homelessness law, not disrepair, so it is not our work. Shelter on 0808 800 4444 is the right call. But if the home also has disrepair, call us free on 0800 030 4669.
What a suitability review is
The right comes from Section 202 of the Housing Act 1996. Think the home does not suit you and your household? Ask the council to review the decision. It must weigh:
- Is the home safe, and in good shape?
- How far is it from work, school and the people who support you?
- What does everyone need: children, health conditions, disability?
How to ask
- Write to the council's housing options or homelessness team
- Do it within 21 days of being placed
- Say clearly why the home does not work for you
- Keep a copy
Get free advice
Reviews get tricky. Shelter (0808 800 4444) helps, and so does local Citizens Advice. See temporary accommodation, your rights for background.
If the temp home is also in disrepair
The disrepair side we may be able to help with, beside your review. Call us free on 0800 030 4669.
Free call: 0800 030 4669 | Start your claim
Sources
- Section 202, Housing Act 1996 (right to request review) (legislation.gov.uk)
- Section 210, Housing Act 1996 (suitability of accommodation) (legislation.gov.uk)
We review every guide at least twice a year and update it when the law changes. If you spot something out of date or wrong, email help@supportfortenants.co.uk.
Reviewed against current housing law for England and Wales as at 3 August 2026. Checked by our SRA-regulated panel solicitors. This is general information, not legal advice for your specific case. Any compensation figures or ranges shown are illustrative only, not a promise; every case is different.
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Still stuck?
Call us free or start a claim online. We'll tell you honestly whether you have a case worth pursuing.