From Property Submission to Going Live
Six clear stages. Full transparency at every step. Understand exactly what happens when you join the framework and what is expected of you as an Operator.
What to Expect
Joining the Exempt Accommodation framework follows a structured process designed to be straightforward and transparent. From your initial property submission to the point where tenants are placed, you will know exactly where you stand at every stage.
There are six clear stages. Each is documented. Nothing proceeds without your explicit agreement. You remain in control throughout, and you retain operational responsibility for your property.
6
Documented stages
21-28 days
Standard pathway
You operate
Retain full control
Submit Property Details
The process begins when you submit your property for consideration. This initial submission allows us to assess suitability at a high level before either party invests significant time.
What you provide
- •Property location and type
- •Number of bedrooms or lettable rooms
- •Current status (vacant, tenanted, or other)
- •Basic property condition information
- •Your contact details
What happens next
We review your submission and respond within 2 working days. If the property appears suitable based on location, type, and layout, we proceed to a detailed suitability assessment. If not, we explain why and you have lost nothing but a few minutes.
No commitment is created at this stage.
Framework Suitability Assessment
For properties that pass the initial screening, we conduct a thorough assessment to determine whether your property qualifies for the Exempt Accommodation framework.
What we evaluate
- •Physical condition and any works required
- •Layout suitability for multi-occupancy
- •Compliance status (fire safety, electrical, gas safety, EPC)
- •Local demand for supported housing
- •Framework eligibility requirements
Property inspection
All properties are inspected before going live. This inspection verifies compliance with framework standards and identifies any works required. A re-inspection fee applies if the initial inspection is failed.
You remain under no obligation. If we determine the property does not qualify, we explain our reasoning.
Service Level Agreement
If your property qualifies, we prepare a Service Level Agreement (SLA) that sets out the terms of the arrangement. This is the formal agreement that governs the relationship between you and the framework.
What the SLA covers
- •Your responsibilities as the Operator
- •Framework services provided (payment collection, tenant referrals, documentation)
- •Compliance standards and property requirements
- •Payment terms and framework deductions
- •Termination provisions and notice periods
The SLA is drafted in clear language. We recommend you seek independent legal advice before signing. Take the time you need to understand the arrangement fully.
All agreements are governed by the laws of England and Wales.
Documentation Setup
Once the SLA is signed, we prepare the framework tenancy documentation for your property. This documentation is required for the Exempt Accommodation status to apply.
What is prepared
- •Compliant tenancy documentation for the framework
- •Property registration with the framework
- •Payment processing setup
- •Referral pathway activation
Framework documentation
The framework entity appears on tenant paperwork. This is required for the regulatory status to apply. You use the framework's compliant tenancy documentation rather than your own.
You retain ownership and operational control throughout. The documentation enables the framework status, not a transfer of possession.
Tenant Placement
With documentation complete, tenants can be placed via the framework's referral pathways. You retain control over who lives in your property.
How tenant placement works
- •The framework provides tenant referrals from established pathways
- •You can accept or refuse referrals at your discretion
- •You may also self-source tenants who meet eligibility criteria
- •Tenants must qualify for the Exempt Accommodation housing element
Your decision, your property
You are not obligated to accept every referral. You assess each potential tenant and make the decision that is right for your property. The framework provides the referrals; you decide who lives there.
Once tenants are placed, your property is live and generating income.
Ongoing Operation
With tenants in place, you operate the property as the Operator. The framework handles payment collection and distribution while you manage the day-to-day.
What you handle
- •General maintenance and repairs
- •Day-to-day tenant issues and queries
- •Behavioural management and house rules
- •Property compliance within framework standards
- •Tenant acceptance decisions for new referrals
What the framework handles
- •Collection of housing payments from DWP
- •Distribution of income to you after framework deduction
- •Ongoing tenant referrals when vacancies arise
- •Framework compliance support and documentation
You retain ownership and operational control of your property throughout. The framework enables access to enhanced housing payments while you manage the property as you see fit within framework guidelines.
For a detailed explanation of your role as an Operator, see our information for HMO landlords.
Typical Timeline
Standard pathway properties can go live within 21-28 days. Here is what to expect in terms of timing:
Property submission reviewed and initial response provided
Suitability assessment and property inspection arranged
Property inspection completed and Service Level Agreement prepared
SLA signed, documentation setup completed
Tenant placement begins and property goes live
Timelines vary based on property condition, compliance requirements, and local demand. Properties requiring works or failing initial inspection will take longer.
Common Questions About the Process
What if my property is currently tenanted?
We can assess properties with existing tenants in place. If suitable, we discuss timing options. Existing tenants may be eligible for the framework if they meet the criteria, or we can discuss transition arrangements.
What if I fail the property inspection?
If your property fails the initial inspection, we will explain what works are required to meet framework standards. You can arrange these works and request a re-inspection. A re-inspection fee applies.
Can I refuse tenant referrals?
Yes. You can accept or refuse referrals at your discretion. You may also self-source tenants who meet framework eligibility criteria. The decision about who lives in your property remains yours.
What happens if a room becomes vacant?
The framework provides ongoing tenant referrals when vacancies arise. Void risk remains with you as the Operator. Your income depends on maintaining occupancy through effective management.
Can I leave the framework?
Yes. The Service Level Agreement includes termination provisions with defined notice periods. If you decide to leave the framework, the process is documented and understood from the start.
Do I need to use a solicitor?
We recommend you seek independent legal advice before signing the Service Level Agreement. The documents are drafted clearly, but a solicitor can ensure you understand all implications.
Ready to Start?
The first step is a property submission. Submit your details and we will review your property within 2 working days. Standard pathway properties can be live within 21-28 days.
No obligation at this stage. Initial assessment provided free of charge.
Important Information
This page describes the standard onboarding process. Individual circumstances may vary. All arrangements are subject to satisfactory property assessment and agreement of terms.
Income under this framework depends on occupancy and your operational management. Void risk remains with you as the Operator. This is not a product that offers predetermined returns regardless of performance.
All arrangements are documented through a formal Service Level Agreement. You should seek independent legal and financial advice before joining.
Further Reading
Learn more about the framework and what it means to be an Operator.