Pilot of choice based lettings to be launched in Caithness

On Wednesday (4 February) the four housing partners of the Highland Housing Register in Caithness will be hosting special sessions in Wick and Thurso to let people know about an exciting new way of allocating some of its properties, giving applicants much more choice about the housing they will be offered.  

For a period from 16 February 2015 onwards, vacancies will be advertised to promote choice.  Instead of waiting to receive an offer of housing, applicants will be able to choose which properties they are considered for by responding to an advert.  

Prospective tenants looking for accommodation in Caithness are being encouraged to complete and submit their housing application forms now so they are able to look at available properties and respond to adverts on the new website which goes live on 16 February.  

The sessions, which will explain how the new system will operate and answer any questions, will take place on Wednesday 4 February at Wick Town Hall on Bridge Street from 10am – 11.30am and at the E’shed, off Naver Road, Thurso from 1.30pm – 3pm  

The Housing partners believe this new system will benefit applicants by giving them more choice and putting them in control of how their application is dealt with.  It will also benefit the Highland Housing Register by ensuring that offers go to people who are interested in the property thereby reducing the time is sits empty and ensuring ongoing tenancy sustainment. 

Anyone interested in finding out more is welcome to come along to one of the Wick or Thurso drop in sessions or contact their local housing team.