Home Housing Housing Options Service Homelessness prevention: private sector renting
Moving out of your temporary accommodation over Christmas?

You will be charged the full rent until the keys for your accommodation are returned. If you live in a property where the repairs are managed by an agent, please contact the agent directly to hand in your keys and to obtain a receipt. Please do not leave keys in the property.

For all other properties, the housing options service at the Town Hall, 160 Whitechapel road, London E1 1BJ, will re-open on Thursday 2 of January 2025. You need to return your keys to the office before midday to avoid charges.

Please remember to notify your housing officer, housing benefit and Council Tax.

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Private sector renting advice

An alternative to making a homeless application is considering renting accommodation through the private sector. Renting a private property gives you, as a tenant, more control over important factors such as:

  • location
  • facilities
  • schooling
  • access to services

Finding yourself a new home - the Ali family's journey

For many people, renting privately will be the quickest way to property. Watch the the following clip to learn about the Ali family’s journey to finding a new home.

 

Terry's story

Listen to Terry’s story to find out how renting privately was a great choice for him.

 

The Housing Options Service has some ways to help you into privately rented accommodation. Including the rent deposit scheme, we can also provide you with details of local accommodation agencies. There are also other opportunities to get financial help with paying your deposit or rent in advance.

Your rights and responsibilities

When you rent privately, you and your landlord both have certain obligations under your tenancy agreement.

Watch the following video find out your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, or visit our Private Renters Charter page to learn more.

Our policy

If you are homeless, the council may offer you the option of private rented accommodation. Watch the following video to learn about the council’s policy.

 

Get more housing advice and find out how we can help you to find a new home.

How to contact us

The best way is to call us. We will take a few details and advise you of how we want to deal with your situation. If you cannot call us, then we can see you at our office in Whitechapel.