Epsom & Ewell council is inviting local landlords to attend a forum to discuss leasing.

The Council will talk about ways in which landlords can help to support households who are trying to secure accommodation, through the Private Sector Leasing Scheme, whereby the council leases a property for between three and five years from a private landlord for use as temporary accommodation.

The authority will also discuss the Rent Deposit Scheme, whereby the council supports residents with rental deposits and guarantees to help them access accommodation that would otherwise be unaffordable.

The National Residential Landlords Association will be in attendance to discuss legislative changes and licensing requirements, and representatives from the Department of Work and Pensions will be on hand to give updates regarding Universal Credit and other related payments.

Environmental Health and Action Surrey will give information on how landlords can improve their EPC rating.

A council spokesperson says: “Lack of housing is an issue that affects councils across the country, including Epsom & Ewell Borough Council. Our housing team work regularly with private landlords to ensure families in need can be housed in the local area.

“The Landlords’ Forum is opportunity to nurture existing relationships with landlords, make connections with new landlords who are not aware of the services and help the council can offer, and enable networking with the National Residential Landlord’s Association and Department of Work and Pensions.”

It will take place on Monday September 23 at Bourne Hall in Ewell between 6pm and 8pm.