New Web-Based Housing Early Application Tool

From Commander, Navy Installations Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) announced the phased Navy-wide release of the Housing Early Application Tool (HEAT) beginning in May.

This web-based tool will allow Sailors and their families to apply for housing online from any computer.

"HEAT makes the Navy house hunting process smoother and less stressful for our Sailors and their families. By providing the early housing application online, Sailors and their spouses can use HEAT to review housing and community information, and make an informed decision on a home before receiving their permanent change of station (PCS) orders," said Vice Adm. William French, commander, Navy Installations Command.

HEAT utilizes authoritative systems to reduce the amount of personal information and to steam line the online process. HEAT can be securely accessed from any computer with an internet connection. Service members or their spouses can use HEAT prior to receiving permanent change of station (PCS) orders to request information about community housing or check on their eligibility for military and privatized housing. They may also submit HEAT requests to multiple Installations if they are not sure where they may be stationed next.

"Our goal with HEAT is to reach out to Sailors early in the PCS process to reduce stress and provide proactive support when moving from one duty station to another," said Corky Vazquez, CNIC housing program manager. "With HEAT, Sailors and their families are able to make contact with our Navy Housing Service Centers and Privatization Partners to discuss their housing needs and learn about their housing options at any time. HEAT makes it easy to connect with our housing professionals and make informed decisions before even having orders."

HEAT will be deployed Navy-wide by Navy Region according to the following schedule:

* Naval District Washington, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic and Navy Region Midwest began May 1,

* Navy Region Southwest began May 8,

* Navy Region Southeast began May 15,

* Navy Region Europe, Africa, Asia beginning May 22,

* Navy Region Hawaii beginning May 29,

* Navy Region Japan, Navy Region Korea and Singapore Area Coordinator beginning June 8,

* Joint Region Marianas beginning June 15.

HEAT will be implemented by region and will be Navy-wide by June 30.

To access HEAT and for more information about when your base will have HEAT, visit http://www.cnic.navy.mil/HEAT.