Council launches agency-style tenant vetting and sign-up service

Cheshire West and Chester Council has launched a scheme for private landlords offering some of the services more typically associated with letting agencies.

The council’s Private Landlord Service provides a range of information and resources for landlords including the latest news about the private rented sector, a tenant finding service, tenancy support/sign up services, training, and access to property improvement grants. 

“Landlords can choose from three service offers with each offer providing a range of services that are designed to assist both the landlord and their tenant. The Private Landlord Service aims to provide landlords with the advice and support they need to deliver a good housing management service” says a spokeswoman for the council.

“We recognise the importance the private rented sector plays in providing housing for the borough`s residents” she adds.

The authority says it will provide landlords with advice and support, free advertising of any vacant properties via the council`s West Cheshire Homes website, a tenant finding service, access to the council`s Bond Guarantee Scheme as well as access to property improvement grants/loans.

The Private Landlord Service also provides help and support to tenants and prospective tenants including Housing Benefit advice and affordability checks “so that the tenancy is successfully maintained.”