Bromley Homeseekers Guide to Refusals
How many properties can I refuse?
Accommodation is scarce and you should think very carefully before refusing a property. You are able to refuse up to two properties will be expected to accept the third property made available to you.
Are my reasons for refusing a property taken into account?
We offer a degree of choice through Bromley Homeseekers and for the first two properties you refuse, no, your reasons for refusal will not be taken into account.
Should you refuse a third property we will consider your reasons for refusing that property only.
What happens if I am invited to view a property and I don’t attend?
If you fail to attend a viewing we will consider that you have refused the property.
What happens if I bid on a property but then change my mind?
If you change your mind before the bidding cycle closes you can withdraw your bid. If you fail to withdraw your bid and are subsequently invited to view the property or refuse it then the refusal will be counted.
What happens if I refuse a third property?
We will review your application and the following may apply:
- We may cancel your application and remove your details from the Housing Register.
- Your priority on the Housing Register may be reduced.
- Where there is a legal duty to do so, we may make you a direct offer of accommodation.
What is a direct offer?
A direct offer is an offer of accommodation that we make to you outside of the bidding system. You will not be able to choose which property is offered to you as a direct offer. These offers are normally final and if you refuse a direct offer it is unlikely that you will be made any further offers.
What happens if I refuse a direct or final offer? Can I appeal against the Council’s decision?
You can appeal against the decision but the property will not be held for you during the appeals process. Your appeal should be submitted within 21 days of the decision otherwise it will not be valid.
We strongly recommend that you sign up for the property in order to ensure that a home is available for you. You will be expected to move into that property but it will not affect any appeal that you submit.
What if my appeal is unsuccessful?
If you signed for the property you will be able to remain there. Your details will be removed from the Housing Register and you will no longer be able to use Bromley Homeseekers. You will not have any further right of appeal and if you remain unhappy with the outcome you should seek independent legal advice from the Citizens Advice Bureau, a law centre, housing aid centre or your solicitor.
What if my appeal is successful?
You may either be made a further final/direct offer or you may be given a further opportunity to bid for a property via Bromley Homeseekers.
If you accepted and moved into a property whilst the review was taking place you will be able to remain there until another property is offered to you.
Who should I contact if I refuse a third property or wish to submit an Appeal?
If you refuse a third property you should contact the Housing Solutions Team immediately outlining your reasons for refusal.
You can do this by:
Emailing the team at please entitle your email “Refusal” or “Appeal”
Calling the Housing Needs helpline on 0208 313 4098
How long does it take to make a decision?
Unless otherwise stated:
We will make a decision regarding a third refusal with 48 hours (excluding weekends and Bank Holidays) of it being submitted.
We will respond to appeals within 28 days of it being submitted.
Who will consider my refusal or appeal?
A refusal will be considered by a member of the Housing Solutions Team who did not offer you the property that you are refusing.
An appeal with be considered by a senior member of staff in Housing Needs who did not make the decision that you are appealing against.