Social Rented Housing
Rights:
• Most tenancies have no end date.
• Many social rented tenants have strong rights as
Scottish secure tenants.
Availability:
• Few houses available.
• Usually have waiting lists.
• Apply directly to the landlord or via the local
authority Common Housing Register.
Cost:
• Usually the cheapest way to rent.
• Rent can be covered with Housing Benefit.
• Bills and council tax paid separately.
• No deposit needed, discuss upfront costs.
• Adaptations are usually arranged and funded by the
landlord.
Private Rented Housing
Rights:
• Most tenancies last for six or twelve months.
• Landlord may need a reason to evict, and must
follow correct procedures.
• If you are sharing with your landlord you may have
fewer rights.
Availability:
• Good - there are lots of homes to choose from in
most areas.
• Available through letting agencies, websites, local
papers and adverts in shop windows.
Cost:
• Generally more expensive than social rented
housing.
• Bills and council tax are usually paid
separately.
• Deposit and rent are generally needed in
advance.
• Some landlords may not accept Housing Benefit.
• Many landlords will allow adaptations to be carried
out and they cannot unreasonably refuse to allow adaptations and
some grant funding may be available.
Owner Occupation
Rights:
• Eviction is less likely but is still possible if
you do not keep up your mortgage repayments.
Availability:
• Good - there are lots of homes to choose from in
most areas.
• Check your nearest Solicitors' Property Centre,
property websites and local and national papers.
Cost:
• The most expensive option, but prices vary in
areas.
• Regular income required to get a mortgage.
• There are lots of extra costs involved.
• Owners have to pay for all repairs.
• Some grant assistance may be available to help with
the costs of adapting your house.
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