Securing accommodation in the private rented sector

When speaking to a landlord or letting agent keep in mind that their priorities will be the rent being paid and the property being looked after. You will be promoting yourself as a tenant, as much as they will be promoting the home to you.

If you are homeless or at risk of homelessness, we can support you to access private rented accommodation through a zero-interest loan for a deposit and rent in advance.

Some tips for securing a private rented property:

  • you should present yourself as clean and tidy at viewings or any office visits – first impressions are important.
  • Show you can afford the rent

Check your local housing allowance rate so you can search for properties you can afford.

LHA rates are used to work out universal credit or housing benefit amounts for private renters. You may get less than your LHA rate if you work.  

To check the LHA:

Search for Local Housing Allowance rates by postcode or local authority : DirectGov - LHA Rates

If you already pay rent to a private landlord and claim benefits, get bank statements and references to show a good rent payment history.  

  • Offer rent in advance

Some landlords do not want tenants on benefits because of how benefits are paid because they can be paid after the rent is due.

Try to offer 2 months' rent in advance if you have it. You get some or all of this back through your benefits when you get them.

  • Find a guarantor

You may be asked for a rent guarantor. A guarantor agrees to pay your rent if you do not pay. They sign a legal agreement. A guarantor is usually one of your relatives. The landlord or letting agent usually checks that your guarantor can afford to pay your rent.

  • Credit checks

Landlords and agents can only do a 'soft search' of your credit record. They need your permission and you cannot be charged for it. They can only see information that is already public.

Credit searches do not show if you have missed rent payments in the past. But they usually show if you are bankrupt or have court orders (CCJs) that say you owe money. Be honest if you do not think you'll pass a credit check. You could suggest something else.