Durham Key Options

DKO Policy Changes

Frequently Asked Questions

14 October 2026

ℹ️

We are contacting all housing applicants about upcoming changes to the Housing Allocations Policy. 

The new policy will come into effect on 📅1 February 2027.

We are writing now so you know what to expect and whether we may need any further information from you.

 

📢Why have I received this communication?

We are letting all housing applicants know about changes to our Housing Allocations Policy. The changes will start on 📅1 February 2027. We are telling you now so you know what to expect.

⚖️Why is the policy changing?

The new policy will help us make sure social homes are offered fairly. It will help us give priority to people who need a home most.

🏠Will this affect my application?

The changes will not affect everyone. If they affect your application, we will contact you by 📅31 January 2027 and explain what this means for you.

✅Do I need to do anything now?

No. You do not need to do anything right now. We are checking applications to see who may be affected. We will contact you if you need to do anything.

📄Will you need any more information from me?

If we need more information or documents from you, we will contact you and explain what we need. We will do this by 📅14 December 2026.

📅When will the new policy start?

The new policy will start on 📅1 February 2027.

🔄What happens next?

We are checking applications to see who may be affected. If we need more information from you, we will contact you by 📅14 December 2026.

❓I have not heard from you. Does this mean everything is okay?

If we need more information from you, we will contact you. You do not need to contact us unless your circumstances change.

🏷️Will my priority band change?

Your band may change under the new policy. If your application is affected, we will contact you and explain what the change means for you.

📧How will you contact me if I am affected?

We will contact you through your online Durham Key Options account or by email. In some cases, we may send you a letter.

📞What if my contact details have changed?

Please make sure your contact details are up to date so we can get in touch with you if we need to.