Control Area (CA) is a geographical area used by the UK housing sector to determine and monitor the availability of housing and the level of access to it. This area is used to ensure that housing stock is allocated in a fair and equitable manner, and to provide a basis for local authorities and housing providers to plan for future housing needs. CAs are typically defined by local authorities and are based on local demographic, socio-economic and housing demand and supply data. They are often used to define areas of housing need, and the levels and types of housing that should be provided in those areas. CAs are also used to determine eligibility for social housing and other housing-related assistance.