Before you move in

This section provides information for shared owners and people who are thinking of becoming shared owners, to help you understand the process before moving in. You can also read about our commitment to shared owners in our Homeowners Policy [pdf].

 

Your lease

What you need to know

Your lease agreement

Your solicitor should have provided a copy of your lease when you bought your home. It includes specific details about your contract. Your lease agreement is an important document and you should make sure you read and understand it before you sign it. Please call us on 0300 555 0500  if you need help with this. (Text relay: 18001 0300 555 0500).

Your online account

When you become one of our customers, you can sign up for an online account. You'll have instant access to lots of information relating to your home and you’ll be able to use a wide range of services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This includes viewing your statements, applying to keep a pet and reporting a problem in your community.

Costs

It’s important to be aware of all the costs of running a home. This includes electric, gas, water and council tax, as well as your monthly rent and service charges. Visit our Payments and charges page for information on service charges and payment options. If you’re having money worries, visit our Benefit advice page for advice on how to get help.

Safety in your home

You’re responsible for making sure your home is safe. This includes making sure gas appliances in your home are working properly and are serviced every year and that the electrics are safe. You’re also responsible for installing and regularly testing your smoke alarms. You can read our Fire safety leaflet [pdf] for advice on how to reduce the risk of fire in your home.

Contents insurance

You’re responsible for the belongings inside your home. We recommend that you take out home contents insurance to cover them. We work with an insurance company to provide special rates for our customers. If you’d like to arrange cover sign up or sign into your online account to find out how to do this.