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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

Pay Your Rent

Online payment

Pay your rent Pay your rent

The quickest and easiest way to pay your rent is online.

Log into the tenant app

Direct debit

Set up a direct debit Set up a direct debit

Setting up a direct debit is the most safe and convenient way to pay your rent.

Telephone payment

Call 01388 814704 Call 01388 814704

If you are unable to pay by direct debit or use the internet, you can make your payments using our automated telephone payment line.

Money support

If your income has been affected by coronavirus and you are struggling to pay your rent, we can help.

Money support page Money support page

Check your rent balance

You can check your rent balance 24 hours a day by logging into your account.