Private rented scheme

We work with tenants to prevent them becoming homeless and help them find suitable rented accommodation. We will work with agents and landlords to reduce homelessness within the Borough.

Our rental scheme for landlords

We want to make it as easy as possible for landlords to work with us. As a landlord, you can rent your properties through our private rented schemes (Rent Guarantee Scheme / Rent In Advance). The scheme introduces individuals and families in need of housing to local landlords. We look for properties within local boroughs to support this work.

Why choose us?

The service is completely free. All we ask is that the property you are renting out meets the same basic safety standards as for any other letting (see property requirements below). 

The scheme also offers the following incentives:

• Free tenant finder service - no commission to pay
• Guaranteed rent payments direct to the landlord (option)
• Up to 5 weeks deposit provided
• Financial incentives for each property let through the scheme
• Council will vet tenants to ensure they are suitable (including immigration status, housing history, benefit status) and arrange viewings of properties
• Free advice for tenancy management issues
• Renters Rights Act 2026 (RRA) – Up to date advice and support
• Personalised service to you which includes regular visits to your property

Letting timescales

The private lettings market is fast moving and our scheme aims to reflect this. We have available tenants so are usually able to complete a tenancy within a short timescale. To avoid delays please ensure that the property is clean, safe and ready to let, with all documents in place.

Where possible we will conduct assisted viewings. As a council, we work with tenants to prevent them becoming homeless and help them find suitable rented accommodation.

Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates

To qualify for the scheme, the council requires that properties are let to households referred by us at a rate as close to the Local Housing Allowance rates as possible.

The rates below are effective from 1 April 2026.

Wokingham Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates (per calendar month)

• Room in any shared accommodation: £390.43 pcm 
• 1 bedroom: £847.69 pcm
• 2 bedrooms: £1092.00 pcm
• 3 bedrooms: £1296.45 pcm
• 4 bedrooms: £1649.48 pcm

Contact us

If you are interested in hearing more about the scheme, email: landlords@wokingham.gov.uk or call us on 0118 974 6000.