Accessing private rented accommodation

We understand that being homeless or at risk of homelessness can be a very difficult time. The information below outlines some key information about Hampshire Home Choice and about accessing private rented accommodation.  

Hampshire Home Choice

Hampshire Home Choice is the Councils waiting list for social housing. To apply, check your eligibility, or check your application see Home - Hampshire Homechoice

Hampshire Home Choice is a waiting list and due to long waiting times for properties it is unlikely that this will resolve your more immediate housing need. In most cases there is no additional priority awarded to applicants who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Living in private rented accommodation does not reduce priority on the register.

Rental costs

The Local Housing Allowance is the amount of money per month someone may be able to claim towards their rent. The amount you are entitled to will depend on your income, savings and other circumstances. The Local Housing Allowance rates vary across geographical location and are set from April each year.

The current local Housing allowance rates for Eastleigh / Southampton area as at April 2025 are:

Shared rate (individual under 35 years old) £423.84 Monthly
1-Bedroom Rate £698.10 Monthly
2-Bedroom Rate £872.00 Monthly
3-Bedroom Rate £1072.06 Monthly
4-Bedroom Rate £1446.03 Monthly

If you are under the age of 35 and you have care leaving status, are managed under MAPPA (depending on level) or receiving disability benefits (PIP or DLA) you may be eligible for the 1-Bedroom Rate.

Your bed need will be calculated based on your household members. It is likely to be the same as your calculated bed need on Hampshire Home Choice.

If you are renting a property with less bedrooms that you are entitled to ( e.g renting a 2 bed property but you have a 3 bed need) you are still eligible for the higher rate based on your bed need rather than how many bedrooms in your property.  

Typically private rented prices are higher than Local Housing Allowance rates. When looking for suitable properties we recommend that you consider what is affordable for you to pay each month based on all of your income. Be sure to consider your other outgoings too.

Advance payments

Typically landlords will ask for rent deposit and rent in advance for you to secure private rented accommodation.

If you are in receipt of housing related benefits (Housing benefit or housing element of Universal Credit) you may be eligible for Discretionary Housing Payment to support with the up front costs. To apply see Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) | Eastleigh Borough Council

If you are not currently receiving housing-related benefits but are at risk of becoming homeless and have an active Prevention or Relief duty, we may be able to help through a Tenancy Start Up Loan. This is an interest free loan paid directly to your landlord or letting agent. You will then agree a repayment plan with the Council. A financial assessment must be completed so we can check that the property is affordable for you.

Where to look

Below are some recommended websites. You can also contact local estate agents (online and in store) and you may find some landlords advertising on social media (such as Facebook market)

Rightmove - UK's number one property website for properties for sale and to rent
Zoopla > Search Property to Buy, Rent, House Prices, Estate Agents
SpareRoom for flatshare, house share, flat share & rooms for rent
Gumtree | Free classified ads from the #1 classifieds site in the UK                                                        https://spotrental.co.uk

Beware of scams.

Managing your tenancy

 As a tenant it is your responsibility to pay your rent each month and look after the property. Any maintenance issues or concerns with the property should be reported to your landlord.

If you are struggling with rent, bills or other issues in your property we recommend that you seek advice as soon as possible. Below are some suggestions of where you can seek advice.

Free, Independent Advice, Whatever Your Problem | Citizens Advice Eastleigh
Home | Hampshire CTSH
One Community - Supporting People & Voluntary & Community Sector

If your landlord asks you to leave or gives you notice we recommend that you contact the Council on 02380 688 000 or [email protected]