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Frequently asked questions

How do I apply for a Livin home?

We advertise all of our available homes on our Find A Home page, simply visit this page for more information.

Before you can place a bid on one of our homes, you must first have an active account with the relevant Choice Based Lettings Scheme. Almost all our homes are located in County Durham and therefore are allocated through the Durham Key Options scheme. Durham Key Options (DKO) is a partnership between Durham County Council and landlords across County Durham.

Once your application is approved, you will then be able to bid on homes that meet your needs. You can access the application form directly by visiting Durham Key Options. If you’re still unsure how to do this, you can watch our helpful video which talks you through the process.

We have a small number of homes which are located outside Durham, these are all advertised through the Compass Choice Based Lettings scheme in Teesside; Compass is similar to Durham Key Options but we do not process applications registered for this scheme. If you wish to register an application for homes advertised in this area, please apply directly with Compass.

How long will it take for my application to be processed?

We aim to start processing your application within 10 working days. If we require any further information after this point, we will contact you to ask for this. Once we have received all the required information we will notify you of our decision within 20 days, and if accepted we will activate your account. You can also check your application status online by logging into the DKO portal.

How can I get involved with Livin and help to shape services?

To find out more about the different ways you can get involved, please visit our getting involved section.

More FAQ's

Support

We provide more than just a home. Find out about how we can offer you financial support, advice, and the opportunity to get into training and employment.

Work and training support

Do you need help to find a job and improve your CV? Our team is here to help you explore your options.

Work and training support page Work and training support page

Money support

We can help you manage your money better by offering advice and support.

Money support page Money support page

Housing support

Our experienced housing team are here to make sure the house you live in really is your home. If your circumstances have changed, you need to report something to us or perhaps you are joining us for the first time, we can support you to making the right decisions for you and your family.

Housing support page Housing support page

Home support

Home support page Home support page

At Livin we want to help you to live well in your home and give you the support you need to live independently.

Universal Credit

Universal credit page Universal credit page

If you need to claim or better understand Universal Credit, we can help you.

Local foodbanks

Get in touch Get in touch

If you are struggling to buy food because of financial difficulties, or you are ill or vulnerable, we want to help.

Domestic abuse

If you are experiencing domestic abuse or violence, we can help support you to access the right services and support agencies.

Only visit this page from a safe computer or in a private window.

Domestic abuse page Domestic abuse page