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Rent guarantee scheme put in place in Somerset
26 Jan 2012
A lettings agency is to be set up by Mendip District Council which will aim to help the homeless and vulnerable secure long term accommodation while guaranteeing property owners rent.
Performing a similar service to landlords as rent guarantee insurance would, the agency will ensure that rent is delivered from tenants who are receiving benefits. This will ensure that homelessness is reduced and landlords receive rent.
The ambitious plans by the council include forecasts for the agency to make savings of £164,000 within the first three years of operation with Housing Options' manager, Jay Vick, telling of his plans for the agency.
Mr Vick told the BBC: "With the benefit rates being cut by central government, pressure is on with people trying to access housing within their benefit rates, so we need to help them access more affordable private-let properties."
As well as providing accommodation, assistance will also be given to tenants in order to ensure they keep within the terms of the tenancy agreement.
Posted by Michael Brown
