Help in accessing a home in the private rented sector

What is private rented accommodation?
Private rented accommodation is housing, which is offered for rent to tenants by private landlords. Anyone can rent accommodation in this sector and there are many different kinds of home to choose from, including houses.

Why should I consider living in private rented housing ?
Social housing, which is rented accommodation let by the council or a Housing Association, is in very short supply. Unless you have a very high priority, you will not be housed via the councils housing register.

For most people, it is much easier and quicker to find a home in the private rented sector. It is also much more likely that you can find a home of the kind you prefer, in the exact area you want, if you rent privately.

But can I afford it?
Many people on low incomes will be able get help with the rent by applying for Housing Benefit.

Don’t landlords usually need a deposit and rent in advance?
Yes, landlords usually need money in advance before they will rent out a property. However, the Council can sometimes help with this, through its private sector Housing Options scheme.

What is the Housing Options scheme?
The council wants to help people to solve their own housing problems and to avoid homelessness. One of the ways we can do this, is to help people to rent privately.

There are two main ways of doing this. If you are able to find your own private rented home, the Council may be able to assist you to pay some of the deposit, provided certain conditions are met.

Alternatively, some landlords tell the Council about properties they have to let and we can then offer them to our customers, without the need for them to pay a deposit .

Who can get housing through the Housing Options Scheme?

The scheme is for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless soon. It is voluntary and no-one is forced to join. Your housing officer will be able to advise you in more detail about the scheme.

Please note that we cannot usually house people through this scheme if they have a history of rent arrears or breaking the terms of their tenancy agreement in previous accommodation.

People who are not eligible for public funds because of their immigration or citizenship status would be unlikely to be able to use this scheme.

What happens if I accept a tenancy through the Housing Options Scheme?
If you accept a tenancy, you will have solved your housing problem and will be suitably housed. You will not be homeless and the council will not have any duty to you under homelessness legislation. If you remain on the Housing Register, you will be in a low band which reflects the fact that you are adequately housed.