What is private rented accommodation?

If you are looking for somewhere to live you should consider private rented accommodation.

The advantages of renting from a private landlord include:

• more choice about the area and the type of property you want to live in
• finding a place quickly instead of waiting for a long time on the Council’s housing register
• not having to be in a ‘priority group’ – you just have to be able to pay the rent and keep to the terms of the tenancy agreement.

You may be able to claim Housing Benefit to help with the rent if you are on a low income.  Whether or not you are claiming benefit, you will be responsible for making sure the rent is paid.

Types of accommodation

There are several main types of private rented accommodation.

Self-contained flats and houses

You will have your own kitchen, bathroom and living space.

Rooms within flats and houses

You can rent a room directly from a landlord or be part of a flatshare, where you form a group with other people wanting accommodation. In a flatshare, you take joint responsibility for paying the rent, and share the kitchen, bathroom and living areas with the group.

Renting as a lodger

You rent a room in your landlord’s home and share facilities with the landlord and their family.

Further information

Visit the Directgov website for further information on renting from private landlords.