Decision details

To approve the implementation of a Private Rented Incentive Scheme to enable officers to work with private sector landlords to secure affordable rented accommodation.

The Committee considered the Private Landlord Offer Scheme which was being proposed to provide the Housing Options Team with the ability to negotiate with Private Sector Landlords to secure private rented accommodation for those who were a priority on the social housing waiting list or were currently homeless.

The Scheme would provide the council with the ability to directly refer prospective tenants to a landlord who had agreed to the terms of the scheme.  The scheme aimed to provide enhanced financial cover to landlords and provide peace of mind that they would have a dedicated liaison officer who would be on hand to support them with any issues.  It was proposed that the scheme would be piloted for a period of two years.  The Committee requested that an update on the scheme be brought back in 12 months’ time.

RESOLVED:  That the Committee

1          approves the Private Landlord Offer Scheme, as set out in Appendix 1 to the report, including the adoption of a rent guarantee to underwrite a tenant’s rent liability, and a finder’s fee to encourage uptake from private landlords to accept referrals and help address housing need in the borough.

2          authorise the Director of Growth and Enterprise, in consultation with the Chair of the Economy and Growth Committee, to make further minor amendments to the scheme to ensure ongoing compliance with the law and guidance from the Government.