If you live in specified accommodation
If you live in 'specified accommodation', you may be exempt from the rules restricting how much rent is used in the benefit calculation. This means as a tenant you can get higher levels of benefit.
If you’re unsure if your accommodation is classed as specified accommodation or if a decision has not yet been made, you should apply for Universal Credit.
Apply for specified accommodation status if you're a landlord or a property owner
You can apply online.
Categories of specified accommodation
There are 4 categories of specified accommodation.
Exempt accommodation
To count as 'exempt accommodation', the accommodation should be provided by either:
- an English non-metropolitan county council
- a housing association
- a not-for-profit voluntary organisation
- a registered charity
The care, support and supervision is provided by either:
- the accommodation provider
- someone acting on behalf of the accommodation provider
The level of care, support and supervision should be more than 'minimal'.
Managed properties
Managed properties are where care, support and supervision is provided by an organisation or individual other than the accommodation provider.
If you are a tenant in a managed property, you must have entered the accommodation in order to get care, support and supervision.
Refuges
This accommodation provides temporary housing plus care and support for people escaping domestic violence.
Hostels
This accommodation provides short-term housing on a temporary basis for people living in hostels that provide care, support and supervision.