Scheme helps with rent deposits in West Dunbartonshire

Citizens of West Dunbartonshire who are unable to save enough for their next move could obtain private housing through a special scheme. The Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme allows for local residents that have a connection to West Dunbartonshire to obtain assistance with the rent deposit so that they can move into their own home.

The service is made possible thanks to a funding allocation from West Dunbartonshire Council. This appropriation is used to cover the cost of meeting landlord deposit requirements so that a person may sign a new tenancy.

The cost is comparatively small when measured against the expense of temporary accommodation in a B&B. Many arrangements cost more than the amount necessary to guarantee a tenancy on behalf of the average lower income tenant. For this reason, the scheme has become one of the more successful services administered by the council. It was first implemented in 2005.

To access the scheme and receive a bond certificate, citizens may first contact their local Housing Options Officer:

• Those who live in west and north sections of the county may call Dumbarton office on 01389 772 004.
• Residents of east and south areas may call Clydebank office on 0141 562 8865.

The bond certificate guarantees that council will agree to initially pay any approved charges for damages caused by a destructive tenant. An initial inventory is taken so that an agreement can reflect the actual appliances and assets that are covered by the guarantee. If the resident causes damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, then the landlord will receive reimbursement for those charges if the tenant cannot or does not pay. These payments are made promptly, and the resident must agree to repay the amounts to the council. An instalment plan can be approved for those who need time to repay the amount.

One optional feature that council has insisted on is a savings component. Bonded tenants are expected to contribute one-sixth of the deposit amount through an approved savings account during the six month tenancy. This allows for the paper bond guarantee to be replaced with an actual cash deposit, which is helpful if the tenant wants to remain in the home beyond the initial tenancy or if they would like to move to a new home.

The rent deposit guarantee scheme is an important tool of council’s Homes Again West-Dunbartonshire initiative, which was formerly the Empty Homes programme. It targets homes which have fallen into disrepair or have otherwise been unrented for more than six months. Landlords can be approved for special loans to restore homes to livable condition. They get special repayment terms, but only if they agree to keep rent affordable for at least the next five years.

In addition to the landlord loans, council will assist eligible tenants with meeting the rent deposit by guaranteeing the tenancy through this scheme. Landlords benefit by getting their properties rented out sooner. Letting agencies are also welcome to sign on to the scheme.

Properties must be within West Dunbartonshire Council territory. Applicants do not have to be receiving benefit payments to be approved. The household must be classified as low income.

The scheme is preferred to other options. It works out to be a zero-interest loan. Anyone who would like to discuss the possibilities that are offered my enquire through the closest office above or call the Empty Homes Officer on 01389 737 576.