People made homeless in Lichfield will not have the right to refuse private rented accommodation if new proposals get the go-ahead.
Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet is set to discuss the move to change the way the local authority handles rehoming people.
At present, people who are classed as “unintentionally homeless” have the right to wait for social housing.
However, the Localism Act 2011 now gives greater freedom for councils to utilise a wider pool of accommodation.
A draft report drawn up by Cllr Colin Greatorex, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, has backed the changes – but warned that the a scrutiny committee was keen to see certain safeguards introduced.
“Members overall welcomed the new policy,” the report said. “However, there were some concerns with the barriers of up front costs associated with private renting – a month’s rent in advance and a deposit are often required – and with ensuring that properties were affordable.
“Council homeless prevention initiatives such as the Rent Guarantee Scheme and the Homelessness Prevention Fund will assist with removing these barriers.
“Members also expressed concerns regarding problems encountered by private sector tenants to ensure landlords maintain the standard of their properties, including ensuring they were energy efficient, and continue to be fit and proper people.”
The council’s draft policy on discharging their homelessness duty outlines a plan to “encourage” people to join the housing register directly, rather than formally applying for homeless status.
However, the document also recognises that tenancy agreements in the private sector must be for a minimum of 12 months – with landlords encouraged to grant two year agreements.
But the report warns that those who still opt to reject private rented accommodation offered will “have to make their own [housing] arrangements”.
The draft policy also outlines how families could have to move out of the area if suitable accommodation is not available within the district.
The report and proposals will be discussed by Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet on November 5.
