Wrexham rent deposit bond guarantee schemes

Wrexham tenants who need help coming up with rent deposit may get help from two schemes that actively serve this need. Instead of saving hundreds of extra pounds to pay in addition to advance rent, a person may simply sign on to one of these schemes to cover the deposit requirement.

Not every locale is fortunate enough to be covered by a rent deposit scheme. Wrexham residents are served by two such programmes. The advantage is that it facilitates new tenancies for those who can afford the normal rent payment, but not the equivalent of two or more months of payments that are normally required upfront.

Compass Bond Guarantee Scheme

Barnardos Compass Partnership offers the Compass Bond Guarantee Scheme to Wrexham residents who are in need of support to cover the deposit requirement of a new tenancy. The service is provided to young people aged 16 to 25 years.

Each person must receive a referral and complete a bond application in order to participate. If approved, a bond certificate will be issued which is accepted by most landlords. Landlords may access the cash if tenants leave behind damages or arrears of up to four weeks of rent. It is a great way for someone to gain access to private rental housing when they have not yet saved enough money to cover the full upfront cash requirement.

Single adults, couples and families may apply so long as the adults are within the age limit of 16 to 25 years. As the scheme is geared towards poor households at risk of homelessness, applicants are required to document all income to prove that they need the assistance.

The application process starts with a simple phone call to Compass at 01978 315130. After scheduling an appointment, the representative will explain what documentation should be brought to the meeting.

WCBC Rent Deposit Bond Scheme

Wrexham County Borough Council operates the Rent Deposit Bond Scheme to assist with obtaining private housing. The programme covers all Wrexham residents regardless of age.

There are fewer restrictions on applicants who would like to access the assistance offered through the scheme. Still, there are situations where one applicant may have a higher priority need over another applicant. These can include pregnancy, dependent children, fully homeless or otherwise experiencing health problems. Extenuating circumstances could speed up qualification for an applicant with an urgent need for aid.

What Council does evaluate is whether they have a “full duty to house” each applicant. Disqualifying events could include becoming intentionally homeless by vacating a suitable residence, or being removed due to anti-social behaviour.

The bond covers private housing that meets the property standard guidelines. Safety, cleanliness and cost are the primary factors that must be met.

Damages or arrears to the property are the responsibility of the tenant. Still, landlords may place a claim against such losses up to the limit of the bond, which typically covers a full month of rent.

In addition to the bond, a Local Housing Allowance may apply to those approved for Housing Benefit. Council’s Housing Options team can help with both the bond scheme and with benefit applications for those who are unfamiliar with the process. To get help, residents may call Housing Options at 01978 292947. Alternate phone lines are available at 01978 292937 and 01978 292949. An appointment can be scheduled for the Council offices on Lambpit Street.