LANDLORDS are being urged to sign up to a Selby District Council private sector letting scheme aimed at tackling homelessness.

The authority has invited landlords to a branch meeting of The National Landlords Association tomorrow to see a presentation outlining the benefits of the scheme.

Rachel Robinson, senior enforcement officer, will explain how the council wants to work together with the private rented sector to address the homelessness problem.

Landlords will also get the chance to hear about recently launched campaign by the association, Rent Risk Resolve, which helps landlords through the risks involved when letting.

Lesley Fenton, association representative, said private sector landlords could be a lifeline to those in need of housing.

"However, councils must understand that renting homes is a business and unfortunately many landlords see renting to the homeless as too much of a risk," she said.

“It is therefore great to see that Selby council have recognised this concern and are working towards offering landlords the assurances and safeguards they seek."

She said incentives included a Bond Guarantee Scheme, which offered a guarantee that the council would honour any bond money requested by the landlord in lieu of rent arrears, legal fees or damage.

“Landlords should be aware of the risks involved when letting, whether they are new or already in the business, and preparing in advance can make all the difference," she added.

*The meeting, which takes place at The Civic Centre in Doncaster Road, Selby, beginning at 5 pm, is free and open to all landlords.