Rented Accommodation
Our Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme operates in Edinburgh, Falkirk and West Lothian and works with landlords and people in housing need to overcome the barriers that prevent letting and to create successful long term tenancies.
It offers a written guarantee in place of a cash deposit for a period of 6 months
and support in finding a flat, understanding the lease, claiming benefits and negotiation between landlord and tenant.
Who can use the scheme?
People who:
- are homeless or without a secure place to live
- are threatened with homelessness
- are in temporary accommodation in a hostel, on a friend's floor or in a bed and breakfast
- are in accommodation where they feel unsafe or harassed or are unable to source the deposit up front for a private rented flat
As well as providing the guarantee, the RDGS also helps people to:
- find a flat
- check the property is safe and meets all the legal requirements
- set up a bank account
- deal with housing benefit
- establish good relationships between tenants and landlords
and provides landlords with:
- a guaranteed source of suitable tenants
- tenants who are referenced and ready to move
- preparation of a Short Assured Tenancy Agreement
- completion and fast-tracking of housing benefit claims by qualified in-house staff
- preparation of an inventory of property and furnishings
- free mediation service if required
- access to a range of free support services for tenants
Those on a low income or with financial difficulties are particularly at risk of homelessness. They often don't have savings or the support of friends and family. Most can't get a council flat or would have trouble living in the areas on
offer. They want to rent from private landlords but are unable to because they
don't have money to pay a deposit or rent in advance. Each year, over 300 people avoid homelessness with support from the Edinburgh Cyrenians Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme (RDGS).
Do you need help with your deposit? or are you a landlord who wants to let a flat? Contact us on:
Edinburgh 0131 475 2356 or email smartmove(AT)cyrenians.org.uk
West Lothian 01506 205413 or email westlothian(AT)cyrenians.org.uk
Falkirk 01324 633413 or email falkirk(AT)cyrenians.org.uk
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