Deposit scheme boost for tenants and landlords

8.15.12pm GMT Mon 17th Mar 2008

• PEOPLE struggling to find private rented housing and landlords looking to let their properties are being urged to take advantage of a matchmaking initiative from Richmond Council.

The Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme helps those who urgently need housing find suitable landlords in the borough. Prospective tenants receive free advice from the borough's housing team and housing benefit applications can be fast-tracked. Landlords also profit from incentives and support, including access to a supply of tenants assessed by the Council, one month's rent in advance, a deposit guarantee and no lettings agent fees. The scheme is run in partnership with Richmond housing charity, SPEAR.

Cllr. Denise Carr, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing, said: "This excellent scheme provides real benefits to people on low incomes or at risk of becoming homeless, giving them quick access to quality homes. Following an assessment by the Council's Housing Team, they are matched up with suitable landlords and get financial assistance with deposits and rent. We are also appealing for more landlords to provide homes for tenants claiming housing benefit. Under the scheme they have the security of a deposit guarantee and access to an assessed list of tenants. It is a winning situation for all involved and the scheme has a good track record of linking landlords with tenants across the borough, many long-term. Whether you are looking for a property or have a home to rent, I urge people to contact our housing team and find out more."