Leasing scheme for local landlords

A new scheme being introduced by Epping Forest District Council will help more local people to find safe and affordable housing.

The scheme is called HALD (Housing Association Leasing Direct) and it is being provided in partnership with one of the country's largest social landlords, Genesis Housing Association. HALD will help local landlords by taking all the worry and work out of lettings, while making more homes available to those on low incomes.

Under the scheme, landlords can lease their property to Genesis for three or five years and receive guaranteed rent when the property is occupied by tenants. 

Genesis also offers a professional management service with no management fee or commission charges. This includes:
• rent collection and accounting
• regular inspections by experienced surveyors and housing officers
• a contact centre ensuring day-to-day repairs are addressed promptly
• an emergency out-of-hours maintenance service
• responsibility for the payment of all utility bills and Council Tax
• legal action, where necessary, at no extra cost.

This scheme is just one of a range of Council initiatives to help people who need affordable housing. In addition to the HALD scheme, the Council works closely with other social housing providers to develop new affordable homes for rent. Shared ownership opportunities may also be available and these are advertised on the Council’s website.

A deposit guarantee scheme is operated through a voluntary organisation called Epping Forest Housing Aid. This helps people who are looking for private rented accommodation, but cannot afford the damage deposits required by private landlords.

If you are a landlord and would be interested in leasing your property to Genesis, contact their Landlord Enquiry Team on 0208 900 4800 or email landlords@genesisha.org.uk