In a "London first", Harrow Council has set up a letting agency to match residents on the housing waiting list with private landlords.
Called Help2Let, the agency is a way to bridge the gap between the high demand for social housing and a lack of supply, which is getting worse due to reductions in government funding and the impact of the recession. The council said it ensures the less well off who are unable to secure social housing are not forced to find sub-standard accommodation.
Under the scheme, the council puts residents in need of social housing in touch with approved private landlords, whose properties must meet set standards. This tenant finding service is paid for by the landlords, who in turn receive expert advice and support from an account manager in the Help2Let team. In addition, the council provides landlords with a two month rent guarantee bond.
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London council looks to private landlords to cut waiting list
