Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
Housing Services - Homelessness
Useful Information
Rent Deposit Scheme
A rent Deposit Scheme aims to enable people who have nowhere to stay secure their own privately rented accommodation. We aim to promote the provision of good quality accommodation and seek to encourage landlords to accept tenants who are eligible for Housing Benefit. We will act as an independent third party by providing landlords with a deposit on the tenants’ behalf.
The scheme offers landlords:
- a cash deposit to cover the cost of any damage and/or theft from the property
- information on renting out a property
- support from staff to help manage the tenancy
- a comprehensive inventory and photographic record of your property before a tenant moves in and after they move out
The guarantee:
- is normally for the first six months of a tenancy, but can be extended
- covers uninsured damage and loss
- covers rent arrears
- can also be used to pay rent in advance until Housing Benefit claims have been assessed.
The scheme will also assist with:
- providing support to tenants to complete Housing Benefit claims on time and make arrangements for Housing Benefit payments to be made directly to the Landlord.
The service provided by the Comhairle’s Rent Deposit Scheme is free to landlords and tenants. The cost of the scheme is met by the Comhairle
If you are a landlord interested in being part of this scheme, or are looking for accommodation to rent, please contact:
Lewis and Harris
Edna Morrison, Homeless Support Officer
The Homeless Service
Development Department
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
Sandwick Road
Stornoway
Isle of Lewis
HS1 2BW
Tel: 01851 709338
Uist and Barra
Mary Steele, Homeless Support Officer
Development Department
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
Balivanich
Benbecula
HS7 5PY
Tel: 01870 602425
