What is private sector leasing (PSL)?

Private sector leasing encourages the use of empty properties to provide temporary accommodation for people who might otherwise become homeless. We have over 10 years experience in running the scheme.

Where do we operate?

We work in partnership with Christchurch Borough Council and New Forest District Council, and are looking for more properties to lease in these local authority areas.

The benefits of private sector leasing

To owners

• Owners can lease an empty property for a rolling two-year lease, and the PSL team will manage the property on their behalf.
• The scheme is open to all owners, including those who are living or wanting to live abroad. 
• We can offer advice on getting your property ready for private renting, including Health and Safety issues.
• We will review a potential resident’s suitability before a nomination by the local authority is accepted.
• Owners will receive a monthly rent, whether the property is let or not, with no deductions made for management fees or residents rent arrears.
• We can provide buildings insurance cover for the property on your behalf.
• Owners will have peace of mind, as we will regularly inspect the property to ensure that it is being looked after by the resident.
• We will carry out routine repairs and maintenance on your behalf, in accordance with the lease terms.
• Owners will have the security of knowing that your property is being managed by experienced, trained staff.
• Owners will be helping someone who might otherwise become homeless and ensure that your property is not being left empty.

 To local authorities

• Waiting lists for housing in these local authority areas are very long and there is a shortage of available homes.
• The PSL scheme offers additional properties for the local authority to house people who would otherwise become homeless.

 To residents

• The scheme provides residents with a temporary home until they are able to get back on their feet and find permanent or rented accommodation. 
• Support is given if required, as well as advice on looking after the property, how to pay rent and how to claim Housing Benefit. 
   

 Contact us

If you have an empty property and would like further information about the private sector leasing scheme, please contact:

Jan Daley-Brown – Senior Leasing Officer
Phone: 01202 460351
E-mail: Jan.Daley-Brown@sovereign.org.uk