If you find private rented accommodation and cannot afford the deposit, our Homefinder scheme may be able to help cover the cost.

The payment does not need to be repaid. When your tenancy ends, you can use the money for another deposit.

Who can apply

You may be able to get help from the scheme if:

• we owe you a relief duty or main housing duty
• you need help paying for a deposit in the private rented sector
• you have not been given this grant before

Property requirements

To be eligible for the grant, the property must have a valid:

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or above
• Gas Safety Certificate, completed by a Gas Safe registered engineer (if the property has a gas supply)
• Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) completed by a qualified electrician
• House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence (if applicable)

The Homefinder Team will inspect the property to make sure it is safe to live in. They will contact the landlord to get the safety certificates and inspect the home.

How to apply

If you have found a private rented property you want to live in, tell us before you sign anything or move in. Speak to your Housing Advice Officer so that we can check if the property qualifies for the deposit.

Get in touch

For more information, email homefinders@maidstone.gov.uk or speak to your Housing Advice Officer.