Rent Deposit Scheme

The Rent Deposit Scheme is operated by Hertsmere Borough Council’s Housing Services Department to assist certain individuals to whom the council owes a duty through legislation access to the private rented sector, who would otherwise be denied because they can’t afford a deposit.

We do this by:

• Providing a guaranteed deposit equivalent to two month’s rent.
• Allowing the deposit to be used to cover any damage and/or rent arrears.
• Providing a complete inventory at the start of the tenancy.
• Providing ongoing support to both parties throughout the tenancy, where appropriate (in conjunction with our Tenancy Liaison Officer).
• Referring tenants to private landlords without charging any fees.

The scheme does not pay anything at the start of the tenancy or during the tenancy towards the rent, (however the tenant may be eligible for help towards rent payments through Housing Benefit). We don’t manage the property or tenancy, but can advise landlords on how to do this effectively.

The primary objective of the scheme is to help prevent homelessness throughout the borough, it is offered to all private landlords and potential tenants who have been proposed by the council’s homelessness officers.

If you would like more information on the scheme, or would like to offer your rental property to the scheme, please contact our Rent Deposit Scheme Coordinator on 020 8207 7538.