The Labour-led council in Exeter is reaching out to landlords across the city who have vacant properties. With housing demand remaining high, the council is keen to make better use of empty homes and support residents who need accommodation.
This effort forms part of Exeter’s Housing Access Together (HAT) programme, designed to connect landlords with tenants in need while creating sustainable tenancies that benefit both parties.
Council officials say that many properties in Exeter remain unoccupied, even as families and individuals struggle to find suitable housing. HAT aims to bridge this gap by offering landlords a simple way to fill their empty homes.
The service is completely free for landlords, removing financial barriers that might otherwise discourage participation. It caters to properties of any size or type, from single flats to larger family homes or shared houses.
The HAT scheme is structured to create long-lasting tenancies, reducing the risk of tenant turnover and helping landlords maintain consistent rental income. This stability also benefits tenants, offering them secure accommodation.
As part of the programme, landlords are offered a range of incentives, including upfront cash payments and the removal of letting agent fees. These benefits make the scheme financially attractive while supporting responsible renting.
In addition, the council ensures that both rent in advance and tenancy deposits are processed quickly, providing landlords with immediate financial reassurance.
Potential tenants are carefully assessed for suitability and affordability before being matched with properties. This vetting process ensures that landlords can feel confident about who they are letting their home to.
Guidance is also offered on legal responsibilities, helping landlords navigate complex housing regulations and comply with their obligations under the law.
Exeter Council also carries out Right to Rent checks, making certain that tenants are legally entitled to reside in the UK. This service reduces administrative work and protects landlords from potential legal issues.
For those who require it, the council can supply a fully prepared tenancy agreement, saving landlords time and ensuring that agreements are legally sound.
Importantly, landlords retain full control over their properties, including the ability to approve or reject prospective tenants. This flexibility allows them to make decisions that suit their individual circumstances.
The HAT scheme has already shown success in connecting landlords with tenants, helping to reduce the number of empty homes while addressing local housing needs.
By taking part, landlords not only benefit financially but also play an active role in supporting the city’s housing strategy, ensuring more people can access safe and suitable homes.
Overall, Exeter Council’s initiative demonstrates how local authorities and private landlords can work together to improve housing availability, strengthen communities, and make better use of the city’s existing housing stock.
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