Demand for social housing bungalows to rent continues to rise across the UK, driven by ageing demographics, accessibility needs, and growing pressure on affordable housing supply. Bungalows offer the unique benefit of single-level living — ideal for older adults, disabled individuals, and those seeking manageable, cost-effective homes with long-term tenancy security.
This guide explores what social housing bungalows are, who qualifies, where to find them, and how Fraser Bond supports tenants, housing providers, and local authorities in accessing or managing these crucial homes.
Social housing bungalows are single-storey properties provided by local councils or housing associations at below-market rents. They are designed to meet the needs of tenants with mobility issues, long-term health conditions, or those requiring a low-maintenance living environment.
These properties often include:
Two or fewer bedrooms
Step-free access and level-entry doors
Adaptations such as grab rails, walk-in showers, or wide corridors
Private gardens and on-site parking
Some are age-restricted (typically 55+), while others are offered to tenants with specific medical or social needs.
Eligibility criteria can vary by region and housing provider, but typically prioritised applicants include:
People aged 55 or over
Individuals with physical disabilities or reduced mobility
Applicants with verified medical or support needs
Households seeking to downsize from larger social homes
Those on low income or in receipt of housing benefit
Applicants must usually be on a local authority housing register and may be required to bid for available properties through local choice-based lettings systems.
Most social housing bungalows are managed or allocated by local councils. Properties are advertised through choice-based lettings platforms, where eligible applicants express interest ("bid") for suitable homes.
Examples:
Home Connections
Locata
Housing Jigsaw
HomeHunt
These not-for-profit landlords often manage large stocks of bungalows across urban and rural areas. You can apply directly to:
Clarion Housing
Peabody
Sanctuary Housing
Riverside
Anchor Hanover (specialised in housing for older people)
Some bungalows are part of Extra Care or Sheltered Housing schemes, offering additional support services such as wardens, alarms, or care assistance.
While rare, occasionally social housing bungalows may be listed through mainstream platforms — Fraser Bond tracks such listings and works with local authorities and housing partners to source available stock.
While availability can be limited and highly competitive, areas with notable stock include:
Greater Manchester – Extensive social housing network with good bungalow availability
South Yorkshire (Sheffield, Barnsley) – Strong council and housing association provision
Midlands (Birmingham, Leicester, Coventry) – Mix of urban and suburban bungalows
Wales – Community housing associations manage many accessible properties
Coastal towns – Areas like Eastbourne, Hastings, and Blackpool offer retirement-friendly bungalow schemes
Fraser Bond has access to data on upcoming or unlisted opportunities in these regions, especially for clients needing specialist housing options.
Fraser Bond works closely with housing associations, local authorities, and private providers to help eligible applicants secure social housing bungalows, and assists stakeholders in allocating, letting, and managing such homes efficiently.
Guidance on application processes and housing registers
Support identifying suitable properties
Help navigating eligibility requirements
Lettings support for hard-to-place bungalows
Consultancy on stock management and tenant matching
Data-led insights on demand trends and allocation strategies
Fraser Bond brings extensive expertise in housing policy, accessibility, and tenancy management — ensuring both tenants and providers achieve positive outcomes.
Social housing bungalows offer a vital lifeline for many individuals and families across the UK, combining affordability, accessibility, and stability. As demand grows, understanding how to access these properties — and where to find support — becomes increasingly important.
Whether you’re applying for a bungalow, supporting a family member, or managing housing stock, Fraser Bond is here to help. Our team provides trusted, expert support in securing and managing the right home at the right time.
Get in touch with us today for personal advice or to explore available bungalows in your area.
