How does the canvass work?

Step 1: Data Matching

In June, a copy of the Electoral register is securely sent to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) where electors’ names and addresses are matched against the information held by the DWP. The ERO can also use local data at this stage to match with.
If all electors registered at the address come back as matched, then the property will follow a Route 1 canvass.
Any electors at a property that cannot be matched, the property will follow a Route 2 canvass.

Step 2: Communication

The route your property is allocated to after data matching determines how we contact you and what you are required to do. Please make sure to read any communication from us in detail and follow the instructions.

Route 1:

If we have an email address on record for you, we will send you an email to ask you to confirm that the details we hold are correct.
The content of the email will include a web address to access your property details along with two security codes that you will need to log in to identify your property.
Once you have logged in you can confirm the details are correct and make changes, as necessary.
If we do not hold an email address for you, or you do not respond to the email sent, we will send a form to the property, addressed to The Occupier called a Canvass Communication A (CCA). If the details listed on the form are correct, then you do not need to do anything further, however if there are changes then you can go to the website listed on the form and use the security codes to make the changes.

Route 2:

A form called a Canvass Communication B (CCB) will be sent to the property, addressed to the occupier. The form will list the names of the electors currently registered at the address.
You must respond to this form, even if there are no changes to be made.
The easiest way to respond to the form is online, using the website on the form provided. You can enter both parts of the security code to view the details for the property and then confirm there are no changes or make any necessary changes.
If you do not respond to the CCB, we will attempt to contact you until you do respond to the form and this could be via reminder forms, email, telephone or a visit to your property.

If you have any questions or queries about the canvass, please contact us by emailing elections@hounslow.gov.uk.