Right to buy

The Right to Buy scheme allows many qualifying secure Council and some housing association tenants to buy their home at a discount.

Do I qualify for the Right to Buy?

You must have been a secure Council tenant for at least two years to qualify. If your tenancy started before 18 January 2005, you can apply for the Right to Buy after two years. For tenancies starting on or after 18 January 2005, you have to wait five years before applying.

The qualifying period does not all have to be with the same landlord.

Even if you are not joint tenants, your husband or wife may share the Right to Buy with you if the property is their only or principal home. Other members of your family may also be able to share the Right to Buy if the property is their only or principal home and they have lived with you throughout the last 12 months. A person living with you as your husband or wife, but not actually married to you, is regarded as a member of your family.

Some properties are excluded from the scheme, such as those designated for the elderly or in some rural areas.

The Council also has powers to suspend the Right To Buy on properties designated for demolition and redevelopment through the issuing of a Demolition Notice.

What is the maximum discount available?

The discount increases depending on how long you have been a secure tenant, up to a maximum of £38,000. The discount may be reduced if the Council has spent a considerable amount repairing or renovating your property, or if you have had a previous discount to buy a council property.

Would I own the freehold?

If you buy a house, you will buy the freehold and own the property outright. If you buy a flat or maisonette, you will purchase a long lease. The Council will still be the freeholder and will be responsible for the upkeep of the building and any communal areas and facilities.

As a leaseholder, you will have to pay the Council a nominal ground rent and service charges. Find out more on the Leaseholders page, which gives advice on relevant rights and responsibilities.

Would I have to repay the discount if I sell my home?

If you bought your home before 18 January 2005, you can sell your home at any time without having to repay any of the discount. For homes bought on or after 18 January 2005, you will have to repay all or some of the discount if you sell your home within the first five years.

If you wish to sell or dispose of your home purchased under the Right to Buy scheme within 10 years, you will be required to offer it to your former landlord at full market value. If your offer has not been accepted within 8 weeks, you will be free to sell the property on the open market.

More information and how to apply

More detailed information on the Right to Buy scheme can be found from the Direct Gov Right to Buy Scheme (This link will open in a new window) page and the government information booklet Your right to buy your home.

Please contact us if you have any questions or would like an application form.

Once you apply for the Right to Buy, the Council will not carry out any repair and maintenance, except in extreme circumstances, as the property will be valued at the date of your application.

Prospective purchasers are advised to seek their own legal and financial advice. Your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loan secured on it.

For further information please contact Home Purchase on 01883 732836 or 01883 732833 or e-mail homepurchase@tandridge.gov.uk

Or write to us at:
Tandridge District Council
8 Station Road East
Oxted RH8 0BT

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