There are advantages and disadvantages for renting a home from a private landlord or letting agent.

The advantages are:

• This can give you more choice about where you live and the type of home. For example: House, flat, bungalow.
• The wait is not usually too long.
• There is usually a wider choice of housing available.

The disadvantages are:

• The rents can be higher council housing and there is a deposit to be paid in advance.
• Housing benefit may not pay the full amount to cover the rent.
• The tenancy agreement may not let you stay long-term so it can be less secure.
• It might not be easy to find a home that is already suitable for your needs.
• Private landlords don’t have to give tenants as much help to adapt your home.
• Some landlords do not look after their homes well.