Private renting

Help with upfront rental costs

Both private landlords and letting agents usually ask for a deposit and rent in advance to secure the property against damages. Generally, the deposit is equivalent to the first month’s rent. If you are facing financial difficulties, there are various ways of getting help.

• Financial assistance from Surrey County Council: view a variety of financial support options and information on their website (Surrey County Council).
• Financial assistance from Reigate & Banstead Borough Council: we may be able to offer you financial assistance to help you secure accommodation under homelessness duties. You will need to have found a potential property and will be required to meet specific criteria to be eligible for help. To find out more call 01737 276 790.
• Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme by NextStep: we can refer households who are at risk of homelessness — and may be in priority need, such as families with children, older people, or people with low‑level support needs or medical issues — to NextStep, a professional housing service delivered by YMCA East Surrey. NextStep run a rent deposit guarantee scheme for those who are looking for privately rented accommodation but are unable to afford the deposit, they can also provide help with finding suitable accommodation. To find out more and to discuss your situation and the possibility of a referral call our Housing Advice team on 01737 276 790. You can also find out more about Next Step on their webpage.

Local Housing Allowance (LHA):

If you are in receipt of Universal Credit, it's important that you understand the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate that applies to your preferred area. 

Find out what the LHA rates are, and how much they are, on the LHA website (Gov.UK).

Council Tax reductions

If you are on a low income, you may be entitled to Council Tax reductions. For further information and to check your eligibility, visit our benefits webpages or call our Housing Benefit team on 01737 276 497.

Crisis Resilience Fund

If you experiencing financial difficulties and require temporary assistance, you can make a Crisis Resilience Fund application (CRF). This replaces the previous Discretionary Housing Payment system. Please visit our benefits webpages or call our Housing Benefit team on 01737 276 497 for further information on criteria and applying.