Frequently asked questions

How do I apply for a Livin home or bungalow?

We advertise all of our available homes on our Find A Home page, simply visit this page for more information.

Before you can place a bid on one of our homes, you must first have an active account with the relevant Choice Based Lettings Scheme. Almost all our homes are located in County Durham and therefore are allocated through the Durham Key Options scheme. Durham Key Options (DKO) is a partnership between Durham County Council and landlords across County Durham.

We have a small number of homes which are located outside Durham, these are all advertised through Tees Valley HomeFinder, Hartlepool HomeSearch and Darlington HomeSearch; They are similar to Durham Key Options but we do not process applications registered for these schemes. If you wish to register an application for homes advertised in this area, please apply directly.

Once your application is approved, you will then be able to bid on homes that meet your needs. You can access the application form directly by visiting the relevant Choice Based Lettings system.

How long will it take for my application to be processed?

We aim to start processing your application within 10 working days. If we require any further information after this point, we will contact you to ask for this. Once we have received all the required information we will notify you of our decision within 20 days, and if accepted we will activate your account. You can also check your application status online by logging into the DKO portal.

How can I get involved with Livin and help to shape services?

To find out more about the different ways you can get involved, please visit our getting involved section.

Can I apply to buy my home under Right to Buy?

Tenants who have been with Livin since before the transfer from Sedgefield Council in 2009 may have the “Preserved Right to Buy” their property. Full details of the scheme are available on the Government Right to Buy website. If you are thinking of applying, please contact us.

Can I apply to buy my home under Right to Acquire?

If you have been a tenant for 3 or more years you may have the right to buy your property under the Right to Acquire scheme. Full details of the scheme are available on the Government Right to Acquire website. If you are thinking of applying, please contact us.

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Case Study

Our people case study - Evie Sands, Executive Support Apprentice

In September 2024, Evie joined our Transformation Team, stepping into a dynamic environment with enthusiasm and a commitment to positive change. After finishing her studies at Whitworth Park Academy she was eager to jump into the world of work and keen to find an administrative support role.

As an Executive Support Apprentice studying Level 3 in Business Administration, she quickly adapted to her new role, showcasing her attention to detail and proactive approach to her tasks. Evie has not only excelled in her day-to-day responsibilities but has also taken the initiative to actively participate in planning and coordinating events and meetings. Her willingness to engage in various projects and collaborate with her colleagues has made her a valuable member of the team.

"I really enjoy working and studying in a formal workplace. My transition from school to work went smoothly, and the Transformation Team have made me feel very welcome. This apprenticeship has allowed me to gain insight into work life and has given me opportunities for which I am very grateful."

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