Rent Bond Guarantee Scheme
You may be eligible for help under the Rent Bond Guarantee Scheme.
The scheme assists people at risk of homelessness living in temporary, poor accommodation to access good quality, affordable accommodation in the private rented sector.
The scheme provides the landlord or letting agent with an underwritten bond guarantee in an affordable property for the first 6 months of the tenancy. This enables the tenant, whilst supported by the scheme to make regular affordable payments direct to the landlord to build up their own cash bond. The underwritten bond does not cover any rent repayments, arrears of rent, nor does it cover any charges or utility service charges.
Depending on individual applicants the scheme may be able to make an advanced payment of four weeks LHA (local housing allowance) to the landlord to secure the property whilst the housing benefit claim is being fast tracked. Once processed the first four weeks will be reimbursed to the scheme and subsequent payments to be made four weekly in arrears direct to landlord, or two weekly in arrears to tenant depending on individual circumstances.
The scheme: Who can apply? If you are a Blackpool resident of at least six months and at risk of homelessness living in temporary, poor, or unsuitable accommodation.
Is there an age limit? We will consider applicants age 16 upwards depending on the individual circumstances.
How can I apply? You can collect an application from most council offices or call in at our Housing Advice Office South King Street.
What does the scheme do?
- Inspects the property before tenancy agreements are signed to make sure it is suitable and affordable.
- Provides a 6 month written guarantee to cover the cash bond/deposit requested by landlords against damage.
- Agrees a payment plan for the tenant to make payments to build up their own cash bond within 6 months.
- Helps the tenant to complete the Housing Benefit claim form correctly.
- Verifies evidence and submits claim to enable the processors to fast track.
- Makes direct payments of LHA (Local Housing Allowance) to landlords if it is in the interest of the tenant for a 6 month period, which may be extended.
- Provides tenancy support for 6 months.
- Supports landlords/agents with tenancy and Housing Benefit matters.
- Liaises with other supporting services to enable a tenant to sustain their tenancy.
All applicants to the scheme, regardless of the nature of their vulnerability, are assessed in the same way and against the same criteria.
All applications are dealt with and interviews allocated in date order from when they are received. In exceptional circumstances we may be able to fast track an application.