Frequently asked questions
Here is a collection of the most frequently asked questions. If you don't find the answer your looking for, please give us a call.
- What is the Good Tenants Scheme?
- The Good Tenants Scheme is a free referencing service provided by South Tyneside Council.
- Who do you reference with?
- We request references from Northumbria Police and South Tyneside Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team. We also reference your last 5 years housing history.
- Why does my partner or child who is over 18 also have to fill in a form?
- This is because everybody's housing history may be different; therefore all applicants need to sign a separate consent form. This allows the Good Tenants Scheme to carry out thorough reference checks. Not signing the consent form means that the application will not be processed.
- How long will it take to process my application?
- The initial referencing process will be completed in a maximum of 14 days. If the application form is incomplete then the process may take longer. Applicants can contact the office during working hours to check on the progress of their application.
- Why do I have to provide a passport picture?
- The Good Tenants Scheme issues all successful applicants with a credit card-sized accreditation 'passport' containing their photo, membership number and start and expiry dates of the accreditation period.
- What can I use my passport for?
- The Good Tenants passport can be used to access the Tenancy Deposit Guarantee Scheme and can also be taken along to viewings to prove to potential landlords that all the reference checks have been passed.
- What is the Tenancy Deposit Guarantee Scheme?
- The Tenancy Deposit Guarantee Scheme guarantees a deposit of £500 for 12 months to landlords or agents on behalf of accredited tenants.
