Living in and Leaving MOD Service Family Accommodation
Finding somewhere to live during your military career often means moving into MOD Service Family Accommodation (SFA). These homes are designed to give service personnel and their families a safe, affordable place to live near their posting - and if you can ignore the magnolia walls, it can be a great way to not only save money, but to be part of a close-knit community. But what happens when it’s time to move, or when you leave the Forces? Here’s a clear guide to military housing in the UK, living in it, and what to do next.
Military Housing UK Explained: SLA vs SFA
Military housing UK is split into two main categories:
• Single Living Accommodation (SLA) – for serving personnel living alone.
• Service Family Accommodation (SFA) – for married personnel or those with dependants.
Both are managed by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), with standards set to ensure safe, secure, and affordable living. Rent is usually lower than the private market, making it a key benefit of military life.
Living in Service Accommodation
Living in service accommodation comes with both advantages and challenges. On the plus side, rent is subsidised, maintenance is managed, and you’re close to your base. But families often face the stress of frequent moves, short notice postings, and limited control over where they live. And have we mentioned the magnolia walls?!
Many military families choose to balance service housing with private renting or ownership, especially if they want stability for children’s schooling.
📖Read Leaving Military Housing behind?
Moving Out of MOD Housing: What Happens When You Leave the Forces
When it comes to moving out of MOD housing, things can feel uncertain. Typically, you’ll be required to leave SFA within 93 days of discharge from service. This is why planning ahead is crucial. Options include:
• Applying for council or social housing
• Seeking support from veteran housing charities
• Using the MOD referral scheme for help with private renting
• Looking into government-backed home ownership schemes
The earlier you prepare, the smoother the transition will be.
Military Spouse Housing Options After Service or Separation
It’s not just serving personnel who need support. Military spouse housing options are
available through various routes. While entitlement to SFA is linked to the serving member, spouses and partners may qualify for assistance through councils or housing associations if they separate or after service ends. Charities also offer housing grants and emergency accommodation for families in need
Military Housing FAQs: MOD SFA, Tenancy & Spouse Support
What is Service Family Accommodation (SFA)?
SFA is housing provided by the MOD for service personnel with families. It’s usually close to bases, with subsidised rent and maintenance included.
How much rent do you pay in MOD housing?
Rent depends on the property’s size, location, and condition. It’s designed to be affordable, generally lower than equivalent private rentals.
What happens when you leave service housing?
You usually need to vacate within 93 days of discharge. At this point, you can apply for council housing, explore veteran housing charities, or move into private rental or ownership schemes.
Are military spouses entitled to housing support?
Spouses may access support through local councils or charities, especially if separated or when the service member leaves. While entitlement to SFA ends with service, other housing routes are open.
Can you buy your military home?
Unlike some government housing schemes, SFA cannot be purchased. However, serving and ex-forces personnel can apply for schemes such as Armed Forces Help to Buy or Shared Ownership.
Find Further Support
From living in service accommodation to moving out of MOD housing, military families face unique housing challenges. Whether you’re looking into military spouse housing options or exploring your next step after service, there is help available through councils, charities, and government-backed schemes.
Understanding how MOD Service Family Accommodation works, and what comes after, means you can plan ahead and feel more confident about your housing journey.
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