Tenant Academy
Preparing to move
If you are on the housing waiting list and bidding for a property, here’s what you need to know to prepare for your move.
Affordability assessments
Before being offered a property by Swindon Borough Council, you’ll need to complete an affordability assessment. This ensures you can afford and maintain your tenancy without falling into rent arrears.
The assessment considers:
- rent for the property
- Council Tax
- everyday expenses like food and clothing
If you don’t pass the affordability check, your application will be paused. You’ll receive support from the Tenant Academy through the Greenlight to housing programme. The team will help you find solutions so you can requalify for bidding. If you’re concerned about your income or spending, contact the Tenant Academy for help by completing a referral form.
Pre-tenancy training
As you move up the waiting list, you’ll be required to complete pre-tenancy training. This training, developed by the Tenant Academy, helps you understand what it means to sign a tenancy agreement and your responsibilities as a tenant.
For more information, visit the pre-tenancy training webpage.
Paying rent in advance
When you’re offered a property, you’ll need to pay rent in advance. This includes either:
- paying a minimum payment of one week’s rent, or
- making a payment of two to four weeks’ rent if you can afford it
Even if you receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit, you must still pay rent in advance to avoid arrears. To prepare, try saving a small amount each week. For budgeting help, explore the Tenant Academy’s training courses.
What to expect in your new home
All properties are let at a reasonable standard. If the property hasn’t been recently plastered or painted, you may receive a paint allowance voucher for decorating supplies. The Tenant Academy also offers a beginner’s decorating course to help.
Properties are empty when let, meaning you’ll need to provide your own:
- flooring
- furniture
- appliances (for example, cooker, washing machine, fridge-freezer)
Start planning and saving for these items while on the waiting list. You might consider affordable options like:
- Upcycle Swindon
- KFR (a furniture and appliance re-use charity)
- British Heart Foundation
- Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree
Budgeting
If you haven’t started saving yet, creating a budget can help. List your income and subtract your monthly expenses to see how much you can save. A budget will also help you manage your finances after moving.
If you’re struggling, you may qualify for financial support. For guidance, contact the Tenant Academy by completing a referral form.
Borrowing
Borrowing money might seem like a quick solution, but repayments can be challenging when managing new household bills. Explore savings and borrowing options from authorised lenders like Acorn Community Bank (formerly known as Credit Union). Acorn offers savings accounts and loans tailored to help you prepare for your move.
Be cautious of loan sharks, who are illegal lenders who operate without permission from the Financial Conduct Authority. Loan sharks rarely provide paperwork and may use intimidation to collect payments. Learn more on the Stop Loan Sharks website.
Stay connected
Follow the Tenant Academy on Facebook to stay updated on new opportunities. For community and housing updates, follow the Swindon Housing Facebook page.
