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If you sell your property within ten years from the date of purchase, then you must first give us, East Devon District Council, the opportunity to buy it back. This is called the ‘right of first refusal’ and is a requirement of the Housing Act 1985.

However, this does not apply to properties in areas designated as ‘rural areas’ or ‘areas of outstanding natural beauty’ which are subject to the Section 157 notice.

Devon Covenant

East Devon District Council properties situated outside the urban areas of Exmouth, Sidmouth, Seaton and Honiton are sold subject to a restriction imposed under Section 157 of the Housing Act 1985. We have resolved to impose the restriction to make sure that as far as possible properties remain part of the general housing stock available for local people.

Under this restriction these properties cannot be re-sold without our written consent. However, we cannot withhold our consent if the person purchasing the property has lived or worked within the administrative county of Devon for the three years before the application for consent.

If you are looking to sell your ex-council property, and you think this restriction may apply, please contact our Legal department on 01395 571678 or email Legal@eastdevon.gov.uk for more information.