Introductory tenancy
We offer a 12-month introductory (or probationary) tenancy to new council housing tenants. If all goes well in the first few months, the tenancy automatically becomes a secure tenancy after 12 months.
If there are concerns about how an introductory tenant manages their tenancy, we can take legal action to end the tenancy or extend the introductory period for 6 months.
Introductory tenants have fewer rights than secure tenants. They have no right to buy, to sub-let, to improve their property, or apply to exchange properties.
However, in most ways the tenancy is like a secure tenancy. The rent charges are the same and we provide the same repairs service.
Introductory tenancies benefit all residents by allowing us the opportunity to deal with anti-social behaviour from new tenants more quickly if we cannot resolve the issues.
Advice and support for new tenants
We visit new tenants to check how they are getting on in their new home. Our officers can give advice and support with settling in, applying for benefits, paying rent, and keeping to the tenancy agreement. Our own tenancy support team may also be able to support if people continue to have problems sustaining their tenancy.
Please note: we are in the process of updating our forms so you can directly apply online. Whilst we have provided PDF forms below, please be aware that email is not secure. We suggest you make sure that any personal information sent via email is protected.
Update personal information
Complete the tenant information sheet (PDF) to update your personal information, including new contact details and household information.
Update personal information (PDF)
Change of name request
Use this form if you want to change your name following a marriage, civil partnership or change of name via deed poll.
Pet permission requests
Please complete this form to let us know what and how many pets you have.
Request for sole to joint tenancy
Please note: change of name request must be first completed if request for joint tenancy is due to marriage/civil partnership etc.
Request for sole to joint tenancy (PDF)
Request for joint to sole tenancy
Make a request for joint to sole tenancy (PDF)
Request permission to alter a council property
Before you make major alterations to your council home (kitchens, bathrooms, moving walls and extensions, for example), you must request permission from us. This does not include decorating or minor updates. To make a request, email tenantalterationrequests@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.
Tenancy succession
Ending your tenancy
Make a request to end your tenancy (PDF)
Anti-social behaviour
Housing tenants: get anti-social behaviour advice
Private residents: how to report anti-social behaviour and nuisance
Request contact from your Neighbourhood Housing Officer
Email: neighbourhoodhousing@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Useful links
Other useful pages on our website:
- reporting a repair
- paying your rent
- mutual exchange and rightsizing
- rightsizing - have you got a spare bedroom and want to reduce bills? By moving to a smaller home, you could reduce bills and may even be eligible for our incentive. You can find out more on our rightsizing web pages or by emailing rightsizing@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
- report a death - Tell Us Once
- report tenancy fraud/subletting
- apply to rent a council garage
- Housing Matters - read news and information about your housing service