DIO: Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 2 October 2026

Military families invited to help shape the future of Service Family Housing

The MOD has today launched the Red Tape Challenge, inviting families to tell us about processes that are getting in the way of them enjoying their homes, so that we can work to change them.

This is just one of a series of new pledges setting out clear commitments to Service families on the quality of their homes, customer service, and ensuring their voices are heard.

For more information and details on how to make a submission, click here.

Housing Matters – Episode 6

Episode 6 of the Housing Matters podcast is out now!

On this episode, actor and campaigner Anthony Cotton joins Emma Brett, Warrant Officer for Defence Homes, to talk about Service family accommodation and why having a home you can be proud of matters.

They discuss the improvements that have been made in recent years, while acknowledging there is still much more to do to ensure Service families have the homes they deserve.

This episode and all other episodes can be found on our “Housing Matters” Defence Homes page here.

Check your boilers!

While the warmer weather is still with us, now is a great time to make sure your boiler is ready for when temperatures eventually start to fall. Heating issues often only become apparent when the system is switched on after a long period of inactivity, so a quick check now could help you avoid problems later in the colder months.

Try turning your heating on and checking that your radiators warm up properly. It is also worth looking at your boiler pressure gauge. Most systems work best with a pressure reading between 1 and 1.5 bar. If the pressure is too low, your heating may not perform as effectively when you need it.

For guidance on how to check the boiler pressure and what to do if you need to top up your boiler pressure, step-by-step videos are available on the Pinnacle website to help you through the process.

Heating oil notice

As fuel prices increase, there is a small but increased risk of fuel theft from households using heating oil. While this affects only a very limited number of families, the following safety advice is intended to help those households reduce the risk of heating oil theft.

To minimise the risk of theft, we ask you to consider these measures if your home requires oil for heating: 

• Secure the tank physically by installing a good quality lock on the tank cap. We also recommend contacting Pinnacle to request any foliage that may obscure your tank is trimmed or pruned back.
• Monitor oil levels regularly and keep a record of your usage.
• Work with your neighbours to watch for suspicious activity in your area and report any unusual behaviour to the police.
• Be smart with your deliveries by avoiding letting your tank run empty. Schedule the oil delivery when someone is home and request that suppliers not the leave the oil unattended.
• If a theft does occur report to the police straight away, then report the theft to your unit and Pinnacle. They may ask for your usage records, so it’s important to keep track of them.

Crisis and resilience fund

If you live in SFA, use oil heating, and are having trouble affording a fuel delivery, you may be able to access short‑term support through the Government’s Crisis and Resilience Fund. This funding, provided by local authorities in England, can help with essential living costs where there is an immediate risk to health or wellbeing. For more information, visit GOV.UK.

Families First newsletter

The latest issue of the Families First newsletter, featuring the latest Defence housing news and updates, is now available on the Defence Homes website.

DIO: Families First Newsletter – 2 October 2026 edition now available

 

To read this issue online, and any back issues, please go to: Families First newsletter – Defence Homes

Don’t forget that you can also sign up to receive Families First and other email updates from DIO Defence Homes, direct to your own inbox – please go to this link to subscribe: https://defencehomes.mod.gov.uk/newsletter-landing-page/

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 18 September 2026

Military families invited to help shape the future of Service Family Housing

The MOD has today launched the Red Tape Challenge, inviting families to tell us about processes that are getting in the way of them enjoying their homes, so that we can work to change them.

This is just one of a series of new pledges setting out clear commitments to Service families on the quality of their homes, customer service, and ensuring their voices are heard.

For more information and details on how to make a submission, click here.

DIO Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 27 August 2026

 

Be the voice of Service families in your area

DIO is launching Regional Experience Committees (RECs) across the UK, bringing together Service family volunteers who are passionate about improving housing services and ensuring family voices are heard.

This is an exciting opportunity to become a Service Family Customer Representative for your region to help influence positive change in military housing. By joining, you will play an important role in highlighting local issues, identifying opportunities for improvement and sharing what matters most to Service families.

As a member of your REC, you will work alongside other representatives and key figures within DIO to provide constructive feedback, discuss common themes and challenges, and represent the lived experiences of families in your area.

To read more about the role and how to apply, click here.

Amendments to Surplus Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Policy
What is changing?

From 1 September 2026, the policy for applying for and allocating surplus Service Family Accommodation (SFA) is changing. The changes are designed to make sure surplus homes are managed fairly while work continues to transform and expand the estate as part of the Defence Housing Strategy.

How surplus SFA is prioritised

When surplus homes are available, applications will be considered in a new priority order. This means some family circumstances will be prioritised first. The updated prioritisation list will be reflected in JSP 464 from 1st September 2026.

How to apply for surplus SFA

From 1 September 2026, if you wish to request surplus SFA, you need to apply every time you receive a new assignment order dated on or after that date.

Mid-assignment applications will only be considered in exceptional circumstances. If this applies, please submit a case through your single-Service personnel branch.

If you receive another assignment order in future, you will need to apply again, even if you are staying at the same duty station.

If you are currently live in surplus SFA, receive a new assignment order, and wish to retain your SFA, you must also submit a new application alongside a retention form available here.

Existing applications for Surplus SFA

We are reviewing the surplus waiting list using the new priority order. Applications will stay active on the waitlist if they meet the new criteria and you have more than six months remaining at the duty station requested.

The Accommodation Support Cell will contact you directly if:

• you applied for SFA using a previous assignment and at a different location from your current duty station.
• you have less than six months remaining in your current role and location.
• according to your Future Availability Date (FAD) on JPA.
• you have submitted more than one e1132 application at the same time.
• you have already been housed in SFA.

Further information

For queries related to the Surplus SFA policy changes, please contact the Accommodation Support Cell at People-Accom-ASC@mod.gov.uk or call 0800 368 7406

Housing Matters Podcast

You can now watch the latest episodes of Housing Matters, the podcast exploring military housing and the issues that matter most to Service personnel and their families.

Episode 3 focuses on damp and mould, one of the most significant challenges facing military housing. Co-presenters Defence Families Champion, Trish Jakeman, and Sebastian O'Hara, DIO Operations Manager South, are joined by Nikki Simmons from VIVO and Matt Smith from Amey. They discuss what causes damp and mould, the work of the Damp and Mould Taskforce, and the steps being taken to improve how these issues are identified, managed and resolved.

Episode 4 looks beyond the home itself to explore the wider community and support networks that help make life on a patch work. The discussion covers the role of NHS services, welfare charities, and the social value initiatives delivered by DIO and its suppliers, showcasing how organisations work together to support Service personnel and their families.

Episode 3 and Episode 4 are available now, alongside the first two episodes in the series. Whether you are interested in housing maintenance, community support or the future of military housing, Housing Matters offers insight into the issues that affect Service families every day.

Families First newsletter

The latest issue of the Families First newsletter, featuring the latest Defence housing news and updates, is now available on the Defence Homes website.

DIO: Families First Newsletter – 27 August 2026

 

The latest issue of the DIO Families First newsletter for SFA occupants is now available to read online at Families First Newsletter - Issue 41

You can sign up to receive the latest news direct to your own inbox from DIO at: Newsletter Landing Page – Defence Homes

Tri-Service Contact House Directory – where to find it online, or how to request a copy

 

Contact Houses, also known as Welfare Houses or Short-Term Families Accommodation, are military accommodation available predominantly for short-term welfare-related bookings, but can sometimes be used by those visiting for leisure reasons. These houses are usually managed by unit staff, where there will be localised policies on priorities for bookings, booking procedures, costs and how to pay.

To access the most up to date version of the Tri-Service Contact House Directory, please use any of the following options:
Go to the Army HIVE webpage at www.army.mod.uk/hives and there is a button to download the Directory at the bottom of the page
Contact your nearest HIVE or RN Family & People Support to request a copy by email. Army HIVEs are listed on www.army.mod.uk/hives, RAF HIVEs can be found on the RAF HIVE Finder at https://www.raf.mod.uk/community-support/serving-families/hive-finder/ and RN Family & People Support local office contact details are at: https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/families-and-veterans/local-support-offices
Contact Army HIVE HQ to request a copy by email via RC-Pers-HIVEComms-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk
Contact us via Direct Message on any of our social media channels – please include an email address so the Directory can be sent as an attachment
Use the Contact Us button on any of the three Army HIVE blogs, where you can submit a request via MS Forms
Go to Army HIVE SharePoint (MODnet access will be needed) to download a copy

Pinnacle Service Families: Next Virtual Outreach Day on 12 Aug

Pinnacle are inviting all Service Family Accommodation (SFA) residents to join their next Virtual Outreach Day on Wednesday 12th August 2026. This online event is a valuable opportunity for families to connect directly with our support teams via Microsoft Teams, from the comfort of their own homes. 

Whether families are dealing with a tricky repair, have questions about allocations, or simply want to better understand the services available to them, the outreach day is designed to provide tailored assistance and guidance. These sessions are part of Pinnacle’s broader initiative to ensure military families have multiple, accessible ways to get the support they need. 

Booking is now open and can be done easily here.  

DIO Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 30 July 2026

 

Hundreds of New SFA Homes purchased at Imjin Barracks 

Hundreds of brand-new homes have been completed at Imjin Barracks in Gloucestershire, marking an important milestone in the MOD’s plans to improve housing for Service personnel and their families. 

DIO have purchased a total of 281 homes near Imjin Barracks, home to NATO’s Allied Rapid Reaction Corps. These homes were purchased by the DIO from existing developments built by Taylor Wimpey, Bloor Homes and Bovis Homes. 

Construction began in 2023 and was delivered in phases, allowing Service families to move in as soon as their homes were ready. Some families have now been enjoying their new homes for almost two years. 

These homes have been designed with sustainability in mind. Features include energy-saving solar panels, low-carbon heating systems, smart heating controls and electric vehicle charging points. These modern features are helping Service families reduce their energy use and, in some cases, lower their household bills. 

For further information, see the full article on Defence Homes here

Pre-move out and move-out appointment reminder

We know that moving can be a busy and sometimes stressful time, and that plans can change unexpectedly. If you are unable to attend your pre-move out or move out appointment, you can change your appointment on the e-1132 system.

Attending these appointments, or providing advance notice if you can't make them, helps ensure your move out process runs as smoothly as possible

Tune in to Housing Matters Podcast

Episode two of the brand-new podcast, Housing Matters is out now. The podcast lifts the lid on military housing and the issues that matter most to Service Personnel and their families.

Co-presenters Defence Families Champion, Trish Jakeman, and DIO Operations Manager South, Sebastian O’Hara, will be joined by special guests each week sharing their unique perspectives, experiences and expertise on all things military housing.

The first two episodes are now available. In the latest episode, we hear from John Reynolds, Army Military Housing Liaison Officer, and Stephanie Jervis from DIO Accommodation, who is also a military spouse and has lived in Service Family Accommodation for more than 18 years. Together, they share helpful guidance for families at every stage of military life, from moving home to simple ways to make a house feel like home.

You can watch episode one and two now.

So grab a cup of tea, press play and join us each week for Housing Matters.

Summer safety – travelling over the summer

With the school holidays upon us, many of our families will be thinking about going away, whether that's a staycation or holiday abroad. If you’ll be away from your home for a period of time, we recommend the following steps to keep your home safe: 

• Hot weather can cause burst pipes, so it’s recommended to turn your water off using your stopcock while you are away. The stopcock is the little tap or lever on pipes that are often found under your sink. 

• Turn off and unplug electricals like your TV and small kitchen appliances like kettles and microwaves to reduce bills and to reduce the risk of an electrical fire. 

• Ask a trusted friend or neighbour to look after your house keys so they can make checks on your home while you are away.

For more summer safety advice, visit Defence Homes.

Families First newsletter

The latest issue of the Families First newsletter, featuring the latest Defence housing news and updates, is now available on the Defence Homes website

DIO: Families First Issue 40 Published

 

To read this issue online, and any back issues, please go to: Families First newsletter – Defence Homes

Don’t forget that you can also sign up to receive Families First and other email updates from DIO Defence Homes, direct to your own inbox – please go to this link to subscribe: https://defencehomes.mod.gov.uk/newsletter-landing-page/

MOD’s Families Hub is now in its second year – have you used it yet?

Link to the Families Hub: https://discovermybenefits.mod.gov.uk/families/ 

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 16 July 2026

FamCAS 2026: SFA Satisfaction Continues to Improve

The Tri-Service Families Continuous Attitude Survey (FamCAS) 2026 has been published today, providing valuable insight into the experiences of Service families and the issues that matter most to them, including housing.

This year’s results show a continued improvement in satisfaction among families living in SFA, building on the positive progress seen in recent years. Overall satisfaction has increased from 44% in 2023 to 53% in 2026, while levels of dissatisfaction have fallen over a number of key areas. Families have reported seeing the strongest improvements in maintenance and repairs, reflecting the continued work to improve the quality of homes and the support provided to Service families.

For further information, see the full article on Defence Homes here.

Keeping Communal Areas Clear

Residents are reminded not to leave rubbish, personal belongings, bicycles, Electric Powered Personal Vehicles (EPPVs), or any other items in communal corridors, stairways, landings, or access routes. Items left in these areas can create significant safety hazards, obstruct access and escape routes, and hinder emergency services during a fire or other emergency incident.

Where storage is required, residents should contact their local Housing Officer to check whether suitable storage facilities are available for items such as bicycles or Electric Powered Personal Vehicles.

Thank you for your support in helping to keep communal areas clear, safe, and accessible for all residents.

Hose Pipe Ban for areas across the UK

Following a period of intense summer heatwaves and record-breaking temperatures, water demand has increased significantly across parts of the UK. As a result, a number of water companies have introduced temporary hosepipe bans. Please check with your water provider to find out whether restrictions apply in your area.

Civilian Housing Options Briefings – 2026 Dates

 

To register for a Briefing, and provide your details please visit:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/information-and-guidance-on-civilian-housing

For more information on MoD Veterans Services support for Service Leavers and their families please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/help-and-support-for-service-leavers-and-their-families

Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 08 July 2026

Welcome to Housing Matters Podcast

DIO are excited to launch Housing Matters, our new podcast created for military families. This podcast lifts the lid on military housing and the issues that matter most to Service Personnel and their families.

Co-presenters Defence Families Champion, Trish Jakeman, and DIO Operations Manager South, Sebastian O’Hara, will be joined by special guests each week sharing their unique perspectives, experiences and expertise on all things military housing.

In episode one, we take a closer look at what the Defence Housing Strategy really means for those living in SFA. Our guests are DIO Chief Operating Officer, David Brewer, who played a key role in the development of the Strategy, and Chris Keen, a military spouse who has lived in 11 different SFA properties. The discussion goes beyond the headlines to explore the investment, ambition and real-world impact behind the Strategy.

You can watch episode one on Defence Homes.

The five-part Housing Matters series will continue with a new episode released fortnightly on a Wednesday. Upcoming episodes include an honest conversation about damp and mould with our suppliers, a deeper look at the unique challenges military families face and how their housing works, the importance of building strong communities on patch and the new freedoms military families have to personalise their military house to feel like a home.

So grab a cup of tea, press play and join us each week for Housing Matters.

DIO Update: Publication of NAO Report on the repurchase of the Defence SFA Estate

The National Audit Office (NAO) has today published its report into the MOD’s buy-back of 36,000 homes.  

DIO: Families First Issue 39 Published

 

To read this issue online, and any back issues, please go to: Families First newsletter – Defence Homes

 

Don’t forget that you can also sign up to receive Families First and other email updates from DIO Defence Homes, direct to your own inbox – please go to this link to subscribe: https://defencehomes.mod.gov.uk/newsletter-landing-page/

DIO: Subscribe to receive Defence Homes email updates

 

Defence Infrastructure Organisation are pleased to share that the Defence Homes website now offers a subscriber service, delivering Families First newsletter and the latest housing news updates straight to your inbox.

 

DIO are keen to keep Service personnel and their families connected with everything happening across Defence Homes.

 

Follow this link to sign up today.

 

MOD’s Families Hub is now in its second year – have you used it yet?

 

Victory Services Club - Monthly Newsletter & Digital Magazine

Victory Services Club have published their latest newsletter and also their digital magazine.

To read the latest ‘Club Life’ newsletter, please click here: Club Life Newsletter - May 2026

To view the digital magazine, please click here: [you’ll need to upload the PDF to Google Drive and link here]

For more information about the Victory Services Club, please go to: Home - Victory Services Club

DIO Service Family Accommodation (SFA) Communications Update - 29 May 2026

 Following the recent downtime, there has been some updates on how you access HomeHub and an extra security step has been added. This means you may be asked by GOV.UK One Login to prove your identity when you log in. You may have already done this when using other government services, such as:

• Renewing a passport

• Updating a driving licence

• Using some HMRC services

DIO Families First Newsletter, published 29 May

 The latest issue of the Families First newsletter, featuring the latest Defence housing news and updates, is now available on the Defence Homes website.