Rightsizing Your Home

East Suffolk Council supports tenants who are living in a home that is larger than they need and would like to move to a more suitably sized property. Rightsizing can help reduce living costs, improve comfort and wellbeing, and make best use of council housing for local families.

Why Consider Rightsizing?

Moving to a home that better matches your household size can bring a range of benefits, including:

  • Lower rent and council tax
  • Reduced heating and utility bills
  • Avoiding Housing Benefit or Universal Credit reductions related to under‑occupation
  • Financial incentives for each bedroom released
  • Help with moving costs
  • A fresh start in a new area or type of accommodation
  • Supporting families who urgently need larger homes

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible for Rightsizing if:

  • You hold a secure tenancy with East Suffolk Council
  • Your current home has more bedrooms than your household needs
  • You wish to move to a smaller property
  • You are aged 55+ and may be interested in Retired Living accommodation

How We Support You

Our Housing Team can provide:

  • Support with registering and bidding for suitable homes
  • Accompanied viewings for East Suffolk Council properties
  • Guidance on mutual exchange options
  • Ongoing support throughout your move

Ways to Rightsize

1. Transfer to a Smaller Home
Eligible tenants receive higher priority on the housing register as under‑occupiers.

2. Mutual Exchange
Swap your home with another council or housing association tenant through recognised mutual‑exchange schemes.

3. Older Persons’ Housing (55+)
Retired Living schemes offer purpose‑built accommodation for older residents, often including communal facilities and a weekday scheme‑manager service.

Financial Support Available

From April 2026, the following payments apply:

Bedrooms released Incentive
1 Bedroom £500
2 Bedrooms £1,000
3+ Bedrooms £1,500
Moving cost contribution £200 (all cases)

Any debts owed to East Suffolk Council (e.g., rent arrears or recharges) will be deducted before payment is made.

How to Apply

Apply via the Gateway to Homechoice: Register for social housing | East Suffolk Council

You can contact us for help at:
Telephone: 0333 016 2000
Email: gateway.specialist@eastsuffolk.gov.uk

What Happens Next?

Once your application is accepted, you will receive:

  • A Gateway to Homechoice banding letter
  • Access to available properties through the Gateway system
  • Ongoing support from your Housing Officer

Timescales vary depending on the area and type of property you need.