Deposit Guarantee Scheme

A service for people who are homeless, or about to become homeless

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Most private landlords require a month’s rent in advance and a deposit equivalent to a month’s rent.

Accessing private rented accommodation in the area is expensive, and there is only a limited amount of social housing available. This is because demand for affordable homes is far greater than the supply of housing.

The Deposit Guarantee Scheme has been introduced to help overcome some of the initial expense of renting in the private sector.

If you qualify for this scheme you will not have to pay a cash deposit to the landlord, CHAT will guarantee to reimburse a landlord against loss or damage to the property up to an agreed amount. We only offer this facility for tenancies in the Mid-Devon district.

A guarantee agreement is signed by you (the tenant), the landlord and CHAT, and may be considered for renewal for a further six months.

As your commitment to the scheme we expect you to participate in a deposit savings scheme.

This enables you to gradually save towards your own cash deposit so eventually you no longer need the
CHAT Deposit Guarantee. At that point the majority pay a deposit directly to their existing landlord and stay in their tenancy.

How do I qualify?

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In order to qualify for this scheme you must:

• Be in housing need.
• Be over 18 years of age.
• Have been not accepted by statutory agencies for deposit or rent agreements.
• Engage with support services that may be identified.
• Complete the assessment process which considers individual circumstances.

Contact us by email or call 01884 255606