TAH Bond Scheme (SmartMove) - good news for landlords and tenants

On 1 January 2010, TAH launched an exciting new project to help both private landlords and their prospective tenants in the Taunton Deane and Sedgemoor districts. 

The Bond Scheme (SmartMove) is funded by central government, Taunton Deane Borough Council and Sedgemoor District Council and is making a real difference to people's lives.

For Landlords

The Bond Scheme offers landlords:-
• The chance to let their property promptly and reduce voids
• A written guarantee (the bond) in place of a deposit
• Free advice/information so they can keep up with changes in law etc
• Free copies of tenancy agreements and a property inventory
• Pre-interviewed, suitable tenants who receive advice and support to help them fulfil their responsibilities and sustain their tenancies
• The setting up of tenants’ claims for housing benefit and professional staff who will follow up any queries that may arise

All the Bond Scheme asks of landlords is that:-
• Properties meet the required standard for fitness and safety
• They agree to let properties to people receiving benefits or on low income
• They inform the Scheme before taking any action to bring a tenancy to an end

If any landlord would like to know more about The Bond Scheme (SmartMove), how it can work to their advantage or how to sign up, they can contact the Project Worker at Taunton Association for the Homeless – Yvonne Hiscock – on 01823 271326 or at yhiscock@tahltd.co.uk

Yvonne Hiscock - SmartMove Project Worker

For Tenants

The Bond Scheme offers prospective tenants the opportunity to access the private sector without the need to have the deposit that would normally be necessary. Properties are inspected to ensure they are of an appropriate quality and that rent levels are acceptable. The tenant is provided with advice and guidance that will help them prepare to take up the tenancy and support, if needed, during the tenancy so that they can stay in their new accommodation.

If any prospective tenant is interested in the scheme, they can either contact the Housing Options teams at Taunton Deane Borough Council or Sedgemoor District Council or, if they prefer, can seek advice from TAH's Project Worker – Yvonne Hiscock – on 01823 271326 or at yhiscock@tahltd.co.uk