Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Updated October 2026
In short: Many councils run schemes to help people rent privately, especially those at risk of homelessness or on low incomes. These include rent deposit loans, bond or guarantee schemes (where the council guarantees the deposit to the landlord) and help with rent in advance. Schemes, names and eligibility vary by council, so ask your housing options team.
| Scheme type | How it helps | Typical eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Rent deposit loan | Council lends the deposit, repaid over time | Low income, threatened with homelessness |
| Bond or guarantee scheme | Council guarantees the landlord against damage or arrears | Households the council is helping to find housing |
| Rent in advance help | One-off payment towards the first month | Varies |
| Discretionary Housing Payment | Help with deposits or shortfalls | Getting Housing Benefit or UC housing element |
How to apply
- Contact your council's housing options service
- Bring ID, income details and your current housing situation
- Ask which schemes are open and their landlord requirements
- Look for landlords who accept council schemes
How Fraser Bond helps
- Landlords who work with council schemes
- Help with applications and references
- Homes priced with LHA in mind
Related guides
Fraser Bond services: DSS & benefit-friendly rentals · Rental · Contact us
Tools and next steps
Many referencing firms look for annual income of about 30 times the monthly rent. A guarantor or more rent coverage can help.
Related guides
Keep exploring
How to Rent an Apartment in London: What to Check FirstRENTING GUIDE
When Can a Landlord Keep Your Deposit? Your Rights in EnglandRENTING GUIDE
Weekly to Monthly Rent Conversion: The Right Way to Calculate
Browse every guide in The London Renter's Hub → · London area guides →
Handy tools
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