Cherwell District Council has unveiled its new Cherwell Bond Scheme programme, designed to increase the quality and availability of affordable housing for private renters across the district.
Under the scheme, anyone who owns a rental property is able to apply for a landlord home improvement grant to undertake possible works, such as refitting kitchens or bathrooms, energy efficiency upgrades, and conversion to shared housing.
In return, the landlords must let the properties at affordable rents through the Cherwell Bond Scheme.
Landlords will also receive ongoing support from the council during a tenancy, including help with gas and fire safety and a £1,000 one-off payment for an initial 12-month tenancy agreement.
“We are proud to be able to offer those most in need the opportunity to access and obtain a safe roof over their heads,” said cllr Nicholas Mawer, portfolio holder for housing at Cherwell District Council.
“This is a great way of supporting people requiring decent accommodation and helping landlords invest in improving the quality of their properties.
“It is an excellent opportunity for landlords — not only will they be eligible for an improvement grant, but they’ll also receive peace of mind as the council will provide support with finding tenants, organising viewings for their property and a deposit bond worth 10 weeks of rent.”
