Changing how you use your home

We may need to give you permission before you do certain things in the home you rent from us.

You will need to speak to your neighbourhood coach for any changes such as:

  • keeping a pet

  • taking in a lodger

  • making changes to who lives there
  • running a business or working working the property

  • parking or storing a vehicle at a property – such as a lorry, boat, or caravan

  • parking or storing a mobility scooter

  • sub-letting part of the property

If there's any other changes you want to make, and you are unsure, please get in touch with us.

We consider each request on a case-by-case basis.  We’ll never unreasonably refuse permission and we refer to your agreement with us in any decisions we make. You can ask for permission from your neighbourhood coach.

We have specific guidance if you need an electric vehicle charging point.

If you don't rent your home, please see our guidance on alterations if you own your home.

Making an alteration to your home

It is important to ask us before you make any change to what’s currently in your home or add something new. This is so you aren’t breaching your tenancy.

How long it takes to get permission

Our team will acknowledge your request within 14 days.

Within a further 28 days, we might ask for more information, such as photos, plans, or quotes to support the application.

Once we have everything we need, a surveyor will decide whether we can grant permission, which may involve a visit.

We aim to make a decision within 12 weeks.

After you get permission

Once you have permission, you'll have 12 months to complete the work. After the work is completed, you should contact us to arrange a post-inspection and send over any relevant certificates. If works are not carried out within 12 months, the application will be closed, and you'll have to reapply.

You will be responsible for paying for any works, as well arranging any other permissions required, like planning permission or building regulations.

You will be responsible for ensuring your chosen contractor is reputable and complies with all relevant regulations. You will also be responsible for maintaining the alterations and keeping them in good order.

You must be the tenant or have Power of Attorney for the tenant to request permission to make a change in your home.

Guidance for shared owners, leaseholders, and outright homeowners

You will need our permission to carry out any alterations to your home if your lease or transfer states that our consent is needed. This may include alterations such as:

  • Replacing kitchens and bathrooms
  • Amendments to your driveway
  • Central heating or electrical installations or replacements
  • Installation of a conservatory
  • Cavity wall and loft insulation
  • Structural alterations or loft conversions
  • Garage conversions
  • Extensions
  • Sheds/outbuildings

It is important to remember that you will be responsible for getting other permission you might need, such as planning permission and building regulations.

Please check your lease or transfer first as some alterations may not be permitted. Applications for alterations should be made via our customer portal.

Start an alteration request

Confirm your eligibility
Is your property over 12 months old? (We cannot allow changes to new build properties as this could affect the defect liability period or NHBC warranty).


Are you going to carry out the works within the next 6 months? (Our permissions are only valid for 12 months once granted, so any your works should be actioned immediately after getting permission).


Are the works only to your private home? (We can't allow works to any communal areas. They are maintained by us and for the use and benefit of all customers).


Have you researched what other permissions you require? (For example, planning permission or building control approval).


Is your rent account up to date?


Compensation for improvements you've made

Compensation for improvements may be available to you at the end of your tenancy for specific types of improvements undertaken at your own cost with our approval.