Applying for a rented home in St Helens

Step 1 – Getting ready

Moving home can be expensive, especially if you’re setting up a home for the first time.  We don’t charge big deposits or fees, but we may ask you to pay at least one week’s rent in advance, even if you’re on housing benefit.

We advise putting money to one side to cover these expenses.

Step 2- Applying

If you’re interested in renting a home from us, you’ll need to register with Under One Roof, St Helens Borough Council’s choice-based lettings scheme.

Properties are allocated in line with St Helens Borough Council’s Housing Allocations Policy.

Step 3 – Bidding

Properties are advertised on the Under One Roof website each week. You can bid on up to three properties that you are eligible for. This is called a bidding cycle.

When the weekly bidding cycle is closed, a shortlist is created for each property. We are then sent the details of each person who should be considered for each property. This is known as a nomination. 

We’ll let you know if you’re nominated, and we’ll ask you to provide the following within 48 hours: 

• Proof of identity and address for everyone who will be living with you 
• Proof of your national insurance number 
• Details of your household income and savings 
• A reference from your current landlord (if appropriate) 
• Your support plan (if you have one)
  
  

Step 4 - Affordability

If you are nominated for one of our homes, we will be in touch and check your circumstances and income. We check that the amount of rent you need to pay is affordable based on the total money coming into your home. 

If the property is affordable, suits your needs and you don’t have a history of rent arrears or anti-social behaviour, you are likely to be offered it.

Step 5 – Viewings and sign-ups

Once all checks are complete, Torus arranges an appointment to show you the property. 

If you accept it, the property will get ready for let and a time will be arranged for you to sign a tenancy agreement. After this you'll get your keys and can move in!