Legal Aid for Housing

Understanding legal aid eligibility, what it covers, and how to apply for free legal representation.

Relevant for:

Currently Homeless

At Risk

Important Warnings

Legal aid is not available for all housing cases. It is mainly for homelessness, eviction, and serious disrepair, not general landlord disputes.
You must use a legal aid solicitor. High street solicitors who do not do legal aid cannot help you for free.
Do not delay. Legal aid applications can take time, and you may miss court deadlines if you wait too long.

Legal aid is government funding for legal help. It is available for some housing cases, including homelessness, eviction, and serious disrepair.
You must pass a means test (based on income and savings) and a merits test (your case must have a good chance of success).
Legal aid may require contributions based on your income and savings. Even if you qualify, you may need to pay monthly contributions if your income is above certain thresholds.
Legal aid can cover advice, help with paperwork, negotiation with landlords, and representation in court.

You have the right to apply for legal aid if you cannot afford a solicitor.
If your case is urgent (e.g., eviction hearing tomorrow), you can apply for emergency legal aid.
Legal aid may require contributions based on your income and savings. Even if you don't earn, capital assets may mean you pay towards costs. If your case wins money or property, some costs may be recovered through the statutory charge. Check eligibility carefully.