Bond schemes

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland

If you don't have money for a deposit there may be a bond scheme in your area that can help you.

How do I find a local bond scheme?

Not all areas of the country have a deposit scheme but many do. They are usually run by the local council, a housing association or a local advice centre.

Crisis Smartmove has a list of local schemes, but it's worth checking locally as well because many other schemes are available. Contact your local council or use our advice services directory to find an advice centre in your local area that can help.

Will they help me?

Different bond schemes have different rules. For example, there may be a limit on how big a deposit they can help with, and some will only help certain groups of people (such as young people or people on benefits). Some schemes may also have a list of participating landlords who have properties available.

What happens to the money?

Most schemes work by providing a guarantee to your landlord - so no money actually changes hands unless there is a problem at the end of your tenancy. If the scheme decides that your landlord is entitled to compensation, you will normally have to pay back any money it has to pay out.

Although it is quite unusual, some schemes may offer loans for a deposit. Usually, they lend you the money in advance and you pay it back over a period of time from your wages or benefits. If there are no problems, you should get your deposit back at the end of your tenancy. As of 6 April 2007, if money actually changes hands, it must be protected by a tenancy deposit protection scheme.

In the past, some schemes would hold the deposit for safekeeping. However, these schemes will not be permitted to take new deposits from 6 April 2007, when the tenancy deposit protection scheme replaces them.