Flintshire Bond Scheme nixes rent deposit requirement

Lower income residents with a family connection to Flintshire may be able to utilise an alternative arrangement for their rent deposit. The Flintshire Bond Scheme allows poor applicants who cannot afford to pay two month’s of rent upfront to get a break on the deposit.

While some residents find out about the scheme through their interaction with Flintshire County Council staff, many are referred by YMCA Wales, which has partnered with Council to raise awareness about the scheme. Together the goal is to eliminate homelessness by facilitating new tenancies by those who lack the savings to pay a rent deposit.

What it does

The bond scheme satisfies the cash deposit requirement for participating landlords. While no cash is actually exchanged, the landlord agrees to accept a bond in lieu of the normal cash proceeds.

Council is basically vouching for each new tenant by stating they will cover any damages resulting from the tenancy once it is vacated. The landlord would need to supply a full inventory of all charges for which reimbursement is requested. Council will reimburse those charges up to the stated amount of the bond, which is usually a maximum of one month’s normal rent charges.

Residents are still responsible for coming up with the advance rent payment for the first month. The advantage of the bond scheme though is that is essentially cuts the upfront funding requirement in half.

Who is eligible

Flintshire residents must have a local connection. Transients who have lived here less than a year and have no family connection in the area may be disqualified.

The service is provided for poor individuals or couples who cannot save enough to cover the deposit. Savings of less than £250 is required to show need for the aid. The low threshold ensures that the limited funding is reserved for people who have the greatest need. Council’s Housing Options Team evaluate all applicants to identify candidates who have a priority need for aid. This can include the homeless as well as those who are at substantial risk of homelessness.

People who are not receiving benefits are not automatically excluded. In fact, Council actually looks for any opportunity for someone to qualify for benefits based on their low income and living situation.

To request help from the scheme, residents may contact the Flintshire Private Sector Support Team for initial enquiries. The Team will accept the application and supporting documentation. Following completion of the bond application, applicants can provide details on their desired private rental so that a bond can be provided to the landlord. An inspection is generally required.

Anyone who applies for the bond scheme should be prepared for credit checks to ensure that the person does not have a history of serious arrears or defaults. Damaged credit does not preclude participation in the programme. It may be necessary though to provide a couple of character references. For those with serious credit issues, a guarantor may be required.

Enquires may be directed to Flintshire Council’s Private Sector Support Team by calling 01352 703808. Appointments are available at the county offices on Chapel Street in Flint.