Seeking Private Accommodation
As it has become increasingly difficult to obtain rented accommodation in the Three Rivers District, the following information gives advice on how and where to look for housing.
Where can I look?
Newspapers
Most local newspapers have a section on "Accommodation to Let". Advertisements are updated weekly and it is important to check all the advertisements as soon as the paper is published as there are many other people who, like yourself, are seeking accommodation.
Shop Windows
Shop owners, particularly newsagents, often have a noticeboard in the window advertising a variety of services including accommodation. If you cannot find anything suitable ask the shopkeeper if you can place an advertisement in his window giving details of the accommodation you require.
Accommodation Agencies
Estate Agents obviously help people sell or purchase properties but some also have a section dealing with houses/flats to rent. An agency can charge you a fee for finding you somewhere to live. An agency cannot charge you a fee for registering with them or for giving you a list of addresses. This is an offence under the 1953 Accommodation Agencies Act. You also cannot be asked to pay for services you have not received.
Family/Friends
If you only need somewhere to stay for a short time you might try asking a relative or friend if they can put you up at least for a little while until you can find somewhere more permanent.
Mobile Homes
There are several mobile home sites in the Three Rivers and Watford districts that can rent a plot to a person who can afford to purchase a mobile home. These are more suitable for childless couples but a list of all the sites in the area is on an explanatory leaflet available at the Council Offices. It is not possible to obtain a mortgage to buy a mobile home.
Houseboats
British Waterways may authorise the mooring of a houseboat on a river or canal. Most occupiers own their own houseboat and rent a mooring. Further details can be obtained from British Waterways on 01923 226422 and a leaflet is available from the Council's Housing Department.
Hostels
Hostels are for homeless single persons or couples who are homeless. There are usually residential hostel staff who offer advice on obtaining permanent accommodation as the maximum length of stay is approximately three months.
Bed and Breakfast
Every town has hotels and guest houses but the prices are often prohibitive. If you are desperate for a room for a short time phone around to find the cheapest room. Three Rivers District Council also have a booklet, Accommodation In and Around Rickmansworth, giving details of hotel and guest houses.
If I find somewhere, what type of tenancy could I be offered?
Self-Contained Accommodation
This type of accommodation may be let for a fixed term or periodic term (week-by-week or month-by-month) and will usually be either an assured tenancy or assured shorthold tenancy. Before signing an agreement make sure you understand what arrangement you are entering into. If in doubt, seek advice.
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
Many landlords let the whole of their property into bedsitting rooms where the tenants have shared use of bathroom and kitchen facilities.
Resident Landlords
This applies to lettings where the landlord and tenant share accommodation within the same household. Depending on the circumstances this may be a licence rather than a tenancy.
There are several very helpful booklets available exploring the different types of tenancies and the rights of tenants and landlords. These are obtainable from the Housing Department, Citizens' Advice Bureaux and local libraries free of charge.
Is a deposit required?
It is usual for landlords to require a deposit before the tenancy commences together with the first rental payment. The deposit is held throughout the term of the tenancy and is returnable provided there have been no dilapidations, breakages, etc as agreed at the start of the tenancy.
Where else can I get advice?
Three Rivers District Council has a Private Sector Liaison Officer, who can be contacted on 01923 776611.