Durham Key Options

Option 3: Renting from Private Landlords

Renting from Private Landlords

We can help you access a private property via the Durham Key Options scheme.

Bidding for a private property will:

•  Cut down waiting times
•  Increase your chance of accessing a good quality home
•  Provide an alternative choice to tenants

Interested? Look out for private properties coming to Durham Key Options soon. For further information, please contact the Housing Solutions Core Team on 03000 262544 or Amanda Russell, Private Landlord Liaison Officer on 03000 262 022.

To view the properties currently advertised by private landlords, please click here.

Private landlords reserve the right to choose the types of tenants for their properties, whether or not these tenants have a housing need. This is because private landlords do not have to let their properties in the same way as social housing providers, who must by law, ensure the majority of their vacancies are let to those in the greatest housing need.

You can also approach estate agents and local letting agencies for details about private landlords or you can look in your local newspaper or property paper. You should be aware that letting agencies may charge you for finding a property and other services like drawing up a tenancy agreement.

Please study your tenancy agreement to check what repairs and maintenance your landlord is responsible for.  If your landlord refuses to carry out any repairs, please contact your local council or the citizens advice bureau.

Private rented accommodation is usually more expensive than social rented housing. Housing Benefit or Local Housing Allowance is available to help with the cost but it may not cover the full rent. You can contact Durham County Council to find out if you qualify.

The majority of private landlords will ask you to pay a deposit before giving you the tenancy.  If you experience any difficulties in finding the deposit, you can contact Durham County Council to see if they can offer any assistance through a rent deposit scheme. 

If you are a private landlord and your property has been empty for six months or more, please click here to see whether the council can assist you.