FOI002498 FOI Housing

Please treat this as a request for information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

1.    Use of Private Landlords
a. Does the council currently lease residential or commercial properties from private landlords or companies?
b. If yes, what property types are accepted (e.g., single lets, HMOs, flats, blocks, B&Bs, hotels, conversions)?
c. Does the council accept properties outside its borough?

2.    Lease Terms & Requirements
a. What are the standard lease terms (length, break clauses, renewal options)?
b. Does the council offer FRI leases or guaranteed rent?
c. What minimum standards/certifications are required (e.g., EPC, fire safety, HMO licensing)?

3.    Rental Pricing
a. What rent levels does the council typically pay?
b. Please provide the typical ranges by property type.
c. How are rents calculated (e.g., market comparison, internal formula, LHA rates)?
d. Are any incentives or refurbishment contributions offered?

4.    Unit Requirements
a. What is the minimum number of units the council will consider (single units vs. multi-unit blocks)?
b. Are there preferred unit sizes (1–3 bed)?

5.    Tenant Use & Support
a. What tenant groups are placed in leased properties (e.g., homeless households, temporary accommodation, care leavers, asylum seekers)?
b. Does the council provide any support or management services within these placements?

6.    Current Demand & Process
a. Is the council currently seeking new landlords or property providers?
b. Which property types are most needed?
c. What is the onboarding/procurement process?
d. Please provide any available guidance or standard agreements.

7.    Current Portfolio
a. How many properties does the council currently lease from private landlords?
b. Please provide a breakdown by property type.
c. What is the average occupancy rate?

8.    Contact Details
a. Please provide the relevant department/officer responsible for private sector leasing or temporary accommodation procurement, with email and phone contact.