Council to put majority of new housing tenants on five-year fixed term

The London Borough of Barnet has decided that the majority of new tenants will be offered a fixed-term, renewable tenancy, rather than being handed lifetime tenancies.

The authority said the tenancies would be reviewed every five years, as part of attempts to target housing for those most in need.

Barnet also said that most young people aged under 25 would see their tenancy reviewed after two years and be given support by Barnet Homes in becoming more independent. Care leavers will, however, be given a five-year tenancy.

Secure lifetime tenancies will be granted under the new policy to:

  • ex-armed forces personnel who have seen active service;
  • older people who have reached retirement age; and
  • households where a person, their spouse or child is disabled or terminally ill.

Cllr Tom Davey, Cabinet Member for Housing at Barnet, said: “At a time of significant housing pressure it’s right that council homes are there for those in the greatest need. 



“Rather than a home for life irrespective of circumstances, the new policy will take account of a tenant’s changing housing needs and recognise if a person has the means to rent or buy a home of their own.

“It will also support young people to become independent by offering a short term tenancy in return for them studying or training, and will help tackle under-occupation by freeing up homes which are larger than a person needs.”