A guide for tenants
Hounslow Council works closely with landlords and agents to find suitable private rented accommodation in borough. This scheme is offered to residents who are having difficulties finding accommodation or cannot afford to pay a deposit.
There are a limited stock of properties so the onus is on the tenant to find a landlord who will work with the scheme.
Features of the scheme
The council provides a damage deposit worth one months contractual rent direct to the landlord or their agent. The council may also pay the landlord an additional incentive payment
The deposit is returned to the council at the end of the tenancy
Assistance to both landlord and tenant with the lettings process
Assistance with tenant Rent Assessment claim and Housing Benefit
The landlord ensures that the accommodation is not in disrepair, has adequate facilities and meets all health and safety requirements
To qualify applicants must:
Be able to sustain a private-rented tenancy
Be homeless or threatened with homelessness, or in very unsuitable / unaffordable accommodation
Be in receipt of welfare benefits or employed on a low income
Have a local connection
Resident in the borough for six out of the last twelve months or three out of the last five years
Have a permanent contract of employment in the borough
Have a family member who has resided in the Borough for at least 5 years
Have no history of intentional homelessness, rent arrears or anti-social behaviour
How does it work?
The applicant must first complete a Hounslow Deposit Scheme application form and provide proof of eligibility to the scheme
Identify accommodation with a landlord who is prepared to work with the scheme.
The Direct Lets team are able to explain the scheme directly to any landlord / agent who is new to the scheme.
Please speak to your Housing Officer if you require this service*
or
Alternatively a Housing Advisor will refer the applicant for a property viewing
Apply to Revenue Services for a Pre-tenancy Determination (PTD). This can take 5 working days and needs to be submitted via the Direct Lets team.
Direct Lets officer will complete an inventory and property inspection
Both parties (landlord and tenant) sign agreements, then the tenant applies for Housing Benefit and moves in once all paperwork is confirmed. Claim fast-tracked by Direct Lets team.
Why choose the Private Rented Sector?
The reality is that many people seeking accommodation take this option because of the severe shortage of social housing. However, many private rented properties are of a high standard; come furnished; with gardens; in new blocks or desirable areas. Under this scheme tenants will be able to exercise choice over the property they accept and the area they wish to live in.
What are my obligations as a private sector tenant?
A full schedule of tenant obligations will be included in the tenancy agreement that is signed with the landlord. It is important that this document is read and understood because the contract does not involve the council.
Tenants need to adhere to the following to ensure their eligibility for future assistance with the Hounslow Deposit Scheme:
Do not do anything that jeopardises or wastes the deposit
Pay any agreed shortfall in the rent not met by Housing Benefits. Pay all necessary bills on the property.
Abide by the terms of the contract and advise the council at least 7 days before leaving the property.
Act in a tenant-like manner with due consideration for both landlord and property
For more information please contact the Housing Advice Line on 0208 583 3844
Monday 4pm - 7pm
Wednesday 1pm – 4pm
Friday 10am – 1pm