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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Direct answer
If your council has placed you in temporary accommodation that is unsuitable, you can ask for a "suitability review." You usually have 21 days to ask, in writing. This is statutory homelessness work, not disrepair, so it is not something we handle. Shelter on 0808 800 4444 is the right place to call. If the property is also in disrepair, call us free on 0800 030 4669.
What a suitability review is
Under section 202 of the Housing Act 1996, if you have been placed in temporary accommodation and you think it is not suitable for you and your household, you can ask the council to review the decision. They must look at things like:
- Whether the home is safe and in good condition
- How far it is from your work, school or support network
- The needs of anyone in your household (children, health conditions, disability)
How to ask
- Put it in writing to the council's housing options or homelessness team
- Do it within 21 days of being placed
- Explain clearly why the accommodation does not work for you
- Keep a copy
Get free advice
Suitability reviews are complicated. Shelter (0808 800 4444) can help, and so can your local Citizens Advice. See temporary accommodation, your rights for background.
If the temp home is also in disrepair
We may be able to help with the disrepair side, alongside 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 If you spot something out of date or wrong, email help@supportfortenants.co.uk.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 26 May 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 and not guaranteed; every case is different.
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