We know that finding a home in Sunderland is becoming more difficult. Right now, 19,484 people are on the housing register, and 770 are in urgent need of a home.
We’re committed to supporting customers especially those whose circumstances mean they need to move. That’s why we’re making a change to how we let some of our homes.
What’s changing?
We’re introducing a more flexible approach to letting new build homes and relets within the first five years. These homes were previously mostly offered to Band 3 applicants who were new to Gentoo. Find out more about our allocations banding
Now, we’ll also offer them to existing Gentoo customers in Band 2 or Band 3, or in exceptional cases.
Why are we doing this?
This change will help us:
- Support customers who are struggling in their current homes, because they’re too big or too small
- Create more movement in our housing stock, freeing up new homes for people who need them
- Prioritise those with the greatest need
Who could benefit?
This change could help if you are:
- Living in a home that’s too big or too small
- Facing financial difficulties
- Living with mobility or mental health challenges
- Moving on from supported accommodation
Frequently asked questions
Why is Gentoo changing how it lets new build homes and early relets?
We want to better support existing customers and those with the greatest housing need. This change helps us create more movement in our housing stock.
Why did you only offer new builds to those in Band 3 before?
Band 1 and Band 2 applicants were often prioritised for existing stock due to their urgent or high housing needs. By offering new builds to Bands 2 and 3, we can free up other homes and better match people to the right property.
Who will be offered these homes now?
These homes may now be offered to existing Gentoo customers in Band 2 or Band 3, or in exceptional circumstances.
I’m in Band 3 and not a Gentoo customer, can I still apply?
Yes, but priority may be given to existing Gentoo customers who meet the new criteria.
What counts as an “exceptional circumstance”?
This could include customers who need to move urgently due to emergencies such as fire, flood, severe repair, and those where there is a serious risk to health and wellbeing. Each case will be assessed individually.
Will Band 1 applicants still be prioritised overall?
Yes. Band 1 applicants will continue to be prioritised for homes in line with our Allocations Policy. This change only affects how we allocate new builds and relets within the first five years.
What is a “relet within the first five years”?
This refers to a home that was newly built and let for the first time within the last five years but has since become available again.
Will this affect my place on the housing register?
Your banding and application will remain the same. This change only affects how certain homes are allocated.
How do I know what band I’m in?
If you are already on our housing register, to see your allocation band:
- Sign in to your account.
- Select the 'Housing Register' button.
- Select the 'View need assessment' button.
Your band will be listed under 'Band name'.
You have the right to ask for a review of your allocation band.
If you are a Gentoo customer and you want to ask for a review of your allocation band, call 0191 525 5000 and select option 4.
When will this change take effect?
We’re working on an interim process now and will update our Allocations Policy soon. We’ll keep you informed.
Where can I find more information?
Speak to your Neighbourhood Coordinator or a member of our Allocations Team by calling 0191 525 5000 and select option 4.
Where can I read the Allocations Policy?
