East Suffolk Lettings has been created, along with the introduction of a new Guaranteed Rent Scheme, to increase residents access to the private rented sector and minimise the use of temporary accommodation. The new scheme aims to encourage landlords to work with the Council, by charging a lower rent, at Local Housing Allowance or within 10%. Landlords will be offered a financial incentive based on the difference in cost between what they would have been able to charge, compared to the lower rate they are charging.
In return, the Council will guarantee the rent is paid on time, each month and will provide support to the tenant to ensure the tenancy is managed appropriately. This will include completing inventories, three-monthly home visits to check on the condition of the property, supporting with benefit claims, and managing utilities. A number of other services will be offered depending on the requirements of the landlord including:-