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Landlords in the Borough of Merton are requiring larger deposits from individuals or families that are seeking to rent. Many people are struggling to pay these increasing housing costs, so the council has created a scheme that may assist. There are many criteria that applicants need to meet, and any aid will generally only be for people on a very low income.

Examples of types of deposits due in Merton

There are a couple different types of deposits that are being asked of tenants and that can be paid for, and they include the damage or security deposit as well as a holding fee. They are being required by landlords in the private sector for different reasons, but in either case, many people are struggling with paying them.

The security deposits being required in the Borough of Merton are usually to protect the landlord from damage to the property. Unfortunately too many individuals have caused damage to fixture’s, carpets, furniture or other parts of the flat or home. Or at the end of the tenancy, there may be rent arrears still due or maybe they leave behind too much rubbish. So the security deposit is being asked of tenants by landlords across the borough and London so they can protect their property or their investment. A scheme from the Borough of Merton can be used to pay this cost from the landlord.

Some properties will require a holding deposit as part of letting a flat. This is being done as it will protect the landlord in case the tenancy agreement does not work out or if the person declines the agreement at the last minute. In this case, the landlord will keep the deposit to offset any rent that may have lost from otherwise letting the property to another tenant or family.

With the increasing rental rates in London and the Merton Borough, more landlords are requiring this type of holding deposit, and the scheme can also help with this. However, there will not be any funds available for paying rent in advance costs, so the individual will need to save money on their own for this cost.

Where to find help for paying deposits

The primary service available is the rental deposit scheme, which is provided by the council to people or even families that meet income and other criteria. The aim is to help the person rent a home in the private sector somewhere in the Merton Borough district. Landlords from the area also work with the council to place these individuals into affordable homes, as they benefit by having a tenant that has money for their deposit and that also receive ongoing support services.

Only individuals on a low income that were living in temporary accommodations are able to apply to the Housing Options Team. Or, there are some people not covered by legislation or that the council has some type of responsibility to help, and people that fall into these categories may be able to receive deposit assistance as well. To make an enquiry, the office is at the Merton Civic Centre, London Road, Morden. Call 020 8545 3636 to find out more.

Other advice is also provided to the homeless, tenants that owe rent arrears, and the vulnerable. The advisors from the Council can provide referrals to other accommodations in the area or city of London. They also have information on applications for benefits as well as other aid. In effect the council will do what it can to keep people housed and off the streets.