Personnel in long-term relationships can now apply for surplus housing, under new co-habitation rules and working arrangements.

If you have served for four years or more and can prove you have been in a long term relationship for more than 12 months, then you could be eligible to apply to cohabit with your partner in surplus Service Family Accommodation (SFA).

Personnel no longer need to be married to apply for surplus Service Family Accommodation (SFA), the policy has also been extended to same-sex couples.

Previously, only married couples, those in civil partnerships and those with legally dependent children could live in SFA.

It is hoped it will help when there is a change in personal circumstances, for example, having to care for young children or elderly relatives or to enter further education.

Service Housing will no longer be allocated according to the rank of the individual, but instead will focus on the size of the family and making sure that houses are fit for purpose.

Here Is How To Apply …

Service Personnel eligible to cohabit won’t hold entitlement to SFA and so, if there is no surplus SFA at their place of work (i.e. within 50 miles of their posting location), they won’t be able to access SFA.

Service Personnel with PStatCat2 – primary parental responsibility – can also apply in accordance with this policy.

What is cohabitation?

The MOD defines cohabitation as a Service Personnel living with their partner, who is not their legal spouse or civil partner, in an LTR.

What is classed as a long-term relationship (LTR)?

You will need to provide evidence of your relationship of 12 months or more when you apply...