The PRS does contain some challenges for prosective tenants, particularly those operating at the lowest end of the market who may have limited means and therefore limited options. Issues to be aware of include:
- It can be expensive, even at the cheapest end of the market rents are likely to be higher than other forms of housing. However, Local Housing Allowance is based on the median rents within a given area and should make it possible to find affordable properties.
- In most cases landlords will require a deposit of one month's rent, on top of the actual first month's rent, paid at the start of the tenancy. For those claiming benefits or otherwise on low incomes this can prove a serious impediment to moving into the PRS unless a PRS access scheme, such as a deposit scheme, is able to provide assistance.
- Virtually all accommodation in the PRS is offered on Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST), which means that after the initial lease expires (normally 6-12 months), unless it is renewed, tenants can be evicted at a month's notice. It is worth noting, however, that social housing is now also largely offered with ASTs. In any case, while a landlord can evict a tenant on an AST at a month's notice, this doesn't mean they will. Indeed most landlords, whether in the private or social sector, want reliable tenants who will pay the rent on time and look after the accommodation and the recent University of York review found that 21% of those interviewed have been in their PRS accommodation for over five years.
- At the very lowest end of the sector the quality of accommodation can be poor. All properties should be viewed in advance of moving in.
However, it is important to emphasise that while these challenges do exist, they are not universal. Crisis' experience is that the PRS can be effectively opened up to provide sustainable ‘ordinary' housing for vulnerable and homeless people through the provision of good quality local
PRS access schemes.
For further information on the rights and responsibilities of tenants as they relate to tenancy agreements, property standards and benefits it may be worth contacting a local
Citizens Advice Bureau or
housing advice centre.