East Dunbartonshire help with deposit & rent in advance

East Dunbartonshire Council has a tool to help people begin new tenancies even when they cannot come up with a rent deposit on their own. The Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme provides an alternative to the traditional cash deposit that most landlords require. The result is that someone who cannot save enough money to access the private rented sector could do so with the help of this scheme.

A person could pay zero deposit if they qualify for a special bond through East Dunbartonshire Council. Many landlords are willing to accept a bond guarantee from the Council in place of the usual cash deposit. A certificate that provides this written guarantee is placed on file with the landlord at the time that a new tenancy agreement is approved.

The guarantee provides assurance to a registered landlord that any damages caused by the tenant beyond normal wear and tear will be reimbursed by the Council. The landlord supplies invoices and receipts as evidence of the damages and will receive immediate payment up to the limit of the guarantee which is typically written for no greater than a single month’s rent charge.

Tenants are still responsible for paying damages, though those payments must be made to the Council. Charges above the amount guaranteed by the Council are still owed to the landlord as are any arrears.

To qualify, a person must have a local connection to East Dunbartonshire. Other councils including the City of Glasgow have similar schemes. The home must be located within the Council area so that it may be inspected. Landlords must consent to the scheme, though the Council can negotiate this participation on behalf of a resident if they have found a home that they wish to rent. There is no requirement for a landlord to agree to the written guarantee.

Council typically will approve an applicant as long as they are aged 16 or more and are on low income. Many approved applicants are already receiving benefit payments. Council can facilitate the application for benefits also if someone is a candidate. The most important characteristic is that the applicant will be able to afford the normal rent payment yet is currently homeless or at risk of an eviction.

The property must be priced according to Local Housing Allowance guidelines if it is to meet restrictions. Single room rent will only be approved for young people, which can limit the properties eligible for consideration.

The scheme itself helps with rent deposit. Council can help someone apply for help with rent in advance through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This can allow someone to start a new tenancy with no cash down.

Aid is only provided for a typical six month period unless the initial agreement is made for a longer term. The Rent Deposit Officer will work with the tenant to help them save towards a future rent deposit. They will also provide tenant support if someone is in danger of falling into arrears. This could include help with finding a grant or assistance with a benefit application. Money advice or budget help might help them meet all expenses. Even disputes between landlords and tenants can often be resolved through mediation by the Council.

Anyone who is struggling to move into their own place and who might find themselves homeless may contact East Dunbartonshire Council’s Rent Deposit Officer on 0141 578 2161. Landlords who are struggling to fill a vacant property could also make contact to explore a possible partnership with the scheme.

Citizens who want to participate should be aware that they are still responsible for all damages even if the Council guarantees to pay upfront charges to a landlord. They are responsible for any arrears which are not covered by the scheme. Finally, any resident who incurs charges through the scheme may find that they can no longer access this service in the future.