New scheme to help landlords and prevent evictions launched in County Durham

In March, the Government introduced a freeze on evictions to help those financially hit by the coronavirus lockdown.

With the ban expected to be lifted this weekend, Durham County Council is anticipating a surge in court applications from August 24, and wants to prevent unnecessary evictions and resulting homelessness.

To tackle the issue, council chiefs have launched the free specialist service ‘Stop B4 You Serve’ for landlords looking to seek possession of properties.

The scheme aims to aid private landlords to find alternative solutions to tenancy-related issues and to help them avoid the costly and lengthy process of serving an eviction notice.

The service could also help landlords with non-payment of rent and provide assistance with benefit applications – alongside providing mediation services with tenants.

Durham County Council’s cabinet member for strategic housing and assets, Cllr Kevin Shaw, welcomed the scheme.

“We’re committed to preventing homelessness in the county and we want to work with landlords to avoid the costly and lengthy process of serving an eviction notice and help find a solution for both parties before it is too late,” he said.

“The effects of the coronavirus outbreak have significantly impacted the personal and financial situations of many residents in the county.

“As the ban on evictions is expected to be lifted, we want to avoid a surge in potential homelessness as a result of a sudden wave of evictions.

“We want to work with both landlords and tenants to find a more sustainable solution to any issues, keep eviction notices as a last resort, and prevent any risk of homelessness in the county.”

Council bosses have stressed the importance of early intervention work, with both landlords and tenants, to help avoid eviction notices or assisting once they have been served.

The new Stop B4 You Serve service can help provide specific solutions for landlords including:

:: Rent arrears assistance through repayment plans and reviewing benefits available to the tenant

:: A financial assessment of tenants to maximise income and reduce debts

:: A mediation service between landlords and tenants

:: Help and advice on planned moves

For more information, contact the private sector housing team on 03000 268 000, via email at [email protected] or by visiting www.durham.gov.uk/preventeviction

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