How to find a home to rent with a private landlord, why this may be the best option for you, and how we can help.
Renters' Rights Bill
This new legislation will change the law around private renting. It includes updates to tenancy agreements, notice periods and the rights and responsibilities of private landlords and tenants.
It's expected to come into law in late 2025, with most of the new rules starting in 2026. For more details visit GOV.UK.
Renting from a private landlord
Finding a home that you can afford to rent doesn't have to mean finding a council or housing association property. There are many other properties in Bristol which are available to rent from a private landlord.
A private landlord is someone who owns one or more properties that they rent out to tenants.
Why rent with a private landlord
There are many advantages to renting privately:
- There are no waiting lists, so you'll be able to move in quickly
- You can choose where you live in the city, and you can move to a different area if you want
- There are many different types of property available, from one-bedroom or studio flats to houses big enough for large families
- The properties will usually be well decorated and carpeted; this is often not the case with social housing
- The properties often come with a fridge, freezer, cooker and washing machine
- If you're on a low income, you may be entitled to benefits which will cover some or all of your rent
Where to find a property
You can find properties to rent by:
- searching for local letting agencies online
- checking websites, such as:
- checking local newspapers
- speaking to the accommodation offices at UWE or Bristol University, if you're a student
- social media buy and sell local pages
- speaking to friends and family
View the property
Once you find a suitable property, you'll need to go and have a look at it.
It's a good idea to take a list of things to check so you don't forget about anything when you're there.
We can help
We can help you find a home with a private landlord if you're homeless or threatened with homelessness.
We can:
- give you advice on how to look for a property
- talk to a potential landlord on your behalf
- help you prepare for your appointment with the landlord to give you a better chance of getting a property
- help you find furniture
In some cases, we can:
- offer financial help with our deposit bond scheme, an interest free loan with repayment terms of up to five years
- help with rent in advance and deposit
- help to buy furniture essentials
What you can do now
If you'd like more advice, email private.renting@bristol.gov.uk
If you want to be considered for financial help you'll need to be referred by a Housing Advisor. They will check to see if you qualify for the deposit bond scheme.
Homes to rent for older and vulnerable people
There are a number of housing options available to you if you're an older or vulnerable person.
These include supported and extra care housing.