Updated October 2026
In short: "affordable housing" in London covers several different products, each with its own rules. Social and London Affordable Rent homes are cheapest but have long waiting lists. Intermediate homes such as London Living Rent and shared ownership are aimed at working households. Private rentals that accept Housing Benefit or Universal Credit fill the gap for many people. Knowing which you qualify for saves a lot of time.
1. Social rent and London Affordable Rent
These are the lowest-cost homes, let by councils and housing associations. You usually need to join your council's housing register, which prioritises people in housing need (homeless, overcrowded, medical needs). In most London boroughs waiting times are long, especially for family-sized homes.
2. London Living Rent
An intermediate rent, set well below market levels, for working households who want to save for a deposit. Eligibility is based on household income caps and usually on not currently owning a home. Homes are advertised through housing associations and the Mayor's housing portal.
3. Shared ownership
You buy a share of a home (typically from 10% to 75%) with a mortgage and deposit on that share, and pay rent on the rest. In London, household income must be £90,000 or less. You can usually buy more shares later ("staircasing"). Remember these are leasehold homes with service charges, so factor those into affordability.
4. Private rentals that accept benefits
If you receive Universal Credit or Housing Benefit, private renting is often the quickest route. Since 1 May 2026, landlords and agents in England can't refuse you because you're on benefits. Your support is capped by the Local Housing Allowance, so focus on homes close to your LHA rate.
5. Help from the council
- Homelessness prevention and relief duties if you're at risk of losing your home
- Deposit and rent-in-advance schemes for private rentals
- Discretionary Housing Payments for shortfalls
- Mutual exchange for existing social tenants who want to move
Which option fits you?
- Low income or on benefits, needing a home soon: benefit-friendly private rentals plus council support
- In housing need, able to wait: join the housing register
- Working, saving for a deposit: London Living Rent
- Working, able to get a mortgage on a share: shared ownership
How Fraser Bond helps
We help renters on Universal Credit and Housing Benefit find homes with London landlords who welcome them, and we can point you to the right affordable-housing routes for your situation.
