COPELAND Council is launching a new programme of support for private landlords.

A new tenancy support service, alongside a series of financial incentives are on offer should private landlords be willing to support housing Copeland’s residents.

The new service will support the relationship between tenant and landlord and will be free of charge to both.

The council has employed a new Private Rented Accommodation Officer to provide the service, through funding from The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Financial incentives such as rent paid in advance, rent guarantees, support for damages incurred, and direct payments to landlords will help ensure that tenancies run smoothly.

In addition to the new tenancy management service, the Council also supports landlords to bring empty properties back into use through the work of its Empty Homes Officer.

Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “We are delighted to be able to provide enhanced support to private landlords.

“This presents a real incentive for any landlords with empty homes to come forward and make the best use of their properties.

“We’re particularly interested to hear from anyone with one or two bed properties, and those that are currently empty, no matter the size, but we would encourage anyone with affordable housing, of £450 per month and under, to come forward.”

The Council is asking any landlords with available properties to get in touch with its Housing team at housing.options@copeland.gov.uk or on 01946 598300.

The council also urges anyone who is homeless, at risk of homelessness, or suffering from domestic abuse or sexual exploitation to call its Housing team, at any time, on 01946 427070, or email housing.options@copeland.gov.uk.