From personal experience it depends who you're renting from. If you go via a letting agency, they'll probably want references, do credit searches etc... and will stick to that seeing as it's company rules. But if you find a private landlord, they're more likely to be amenable to an expat and his/her circumstances, as long as you can show you have the ability to pay the rent.caller wrote:Mags, I think you're being too negative. He'll be fine. He'll need cash to put down a deposit on a room / flat plus 1/3 months rent, but once he has an address, declares to whoever asks, that he is back to settle and work, the state will kick in for temp help. I'm sure he has a NI number and that will also help things along.margaretcarnes wrote:Sorry Siani - but GLC has been in Thailand quite a few years now, and that would certainly present problems if he returns. Getting a place to rent - fine - but landlords need references, ID, income details etc. Some won't accept 'DSS' even if he was able to claim help with rent - or indeed able to claim Jobseekers or anything else - until the authorities are satisfied that he intends to stay etc etc. It really isn't easy at all I'm afraid. Even getting a bank account without current utility bills - a vicious circle.
I would say there's zero chance of the state finding a place to stay for an expat just turning up out the blue. At least for somewhere half-decent. I've seen the council properties available in my local area from a leaflet in the library and they always seem to be in the worst areas. If you satisfy the criteria you can "apply", but I think those who have been in need longer (or claiming certain benefits longer) get preference.