Temporary Accommodation
Understanding your rights and finding better housing solutions
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Council Housing for Homeless Households
Temporary accommodation is housing that your local council provides when you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996, councils have a legal duty to secure interim accommodation for applicants who appear to be in priority need while they investigate their homelessness application.
The accommodation is meant to be a short-term solution while a more permanent home is found. However, the reality for many households is very different — with over 100,000 families currently in temporary accommodation across England, waiting times can stretch from months to years.
At Stone and Sky, we provide supported housing alternatives that offer greater stability, higher standards, and dedicated support — helping people move beyond temporary accommodation into long-term homes.
Key Facts About Temporary Accommodation
- ✓Provided under the Housing Act 1996 (Part VII)
- ✓Available to those in priority need who are not intentionally homeless
- ✓Rent is usually covered by Housing Benefit or Universal Credit
- ✓Over 100,000 households in temporary accommodation in England
- ✓No fixed time limit — some families wait years for permanent housing
Where Councils Place Homeless Households
The type of temporary accommodation you are offered depends on availability, your household size, and your specific needs
Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)
Often used as emergency placements, B&Bs are intended as short-term only. Councils should not place families in B&Bs for more than six weeks.
Hostels
Shared accommodation with basic facilities, typically used for single adults or couples without children. Support services may be available on-site.
Council or Housing Association Flats
Self-contained flats managed by the council or a housing association, offering more privacy and stability than shared accommodation.
Supported Housing
Accommodation provided by specialist organisations like Stone and Sky, combining stable housing with personalised support to help residents build independence.
Rights in Temporary Accommodation UK
If you are in temporary accommodation or have been offered a placement, it is important to understand your legal rights. The council has specific duties towards you, and you are entitled to challenge decisions that do not meet these standards.
- ✓Right to suitable accommodation — the property must be adequate for your household size and any medical, accessibility, or welfare needs
- ✓Right to refuse unsuitable housing — you can request a review if the accommodation offered is not suitable for your needs
- ✓B&B time limits for families — if you have dependent children or are pregnant, you should not be placed in a B&B for more than six weeks
- ✓Right to a written decision — the council must provide a written decision on your homelessness application and reasons for any refusal
- ✓Right to support services — you are entitled to help with housing advice, benefits, and other support while in temporary accommodation
- ✓Right to request a review — if your application is refused or you disagree with the council's decision, you have 21 days to request a review
Do You Pay Rent in Temporary Accommodation?
Yes — rent is usually charged in temporary accommodation. However, most residents can claim Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit to cover the cost.
- •Housing Benefit covers most or all of the rent for eligible claimants
- •A top-up payment may be required if benefits do not cover the full amount
- •Council Tax may also apply depending on the property type
- •Speak to your council or a housing adviser if you are struggling with costs
Better Alternatives to Temporary Accommodation
Stone and Sky provides supported housing across Birmingham and the West Midlands — offering stable, high-quality homes with dedicated keyworker support. If you are in temporary accommodation or at risk of homelessness, our services can provide a long-term solution.
Exempt Accommodation
Supported housing with enhanced benefits, providing stable accommodation and a minimum of one hour of weekly support.
Learn more →Supported Living
Independent accommodation with personalised support plans, helping residents build life skills and maintain their tenancy.
Learn more →Transitional Housing
Short to medium-term accommodation designed as a stepping stone from homelessness to permanent, independent living.
Learn more →