New Peer Landlord Interim Evaluation Released

Commonweal releases interim findings of an independent, four year evaluation of the pilot Peer Landlord shared housing model. We commissioned this ongoing evaluation as part of Commonweal’s commitment to developing new models, capturing what works, what doesn’t, and sharing this knowledge.

We are now pleased to publish the findings at the two year interim stage. The full summary report can be downloaded here. 

This ongoing evaluation approach means the Peer Landlord model is constantly improving, and is ultimately delivering the best possible long-term housing solution for tenants.

Summary of findings

• It is clear that the tenants who thrive are those actively in or seeking work, training or education. This means newer tenants are more satisfied with the experience of sharing.
• The introduction of new suitability interviews and assessments with tenants ensures they would be happy and suitable for the Peer Landlord homes. The evaluation report also recommends that all tenants receive training prior to moving in.
• Ininitially a new concept, there is now a clearer understanding in year two of the supportive role of the live-in Peer Landlord tenant.
• Both delivery charities are trialling different approaches to bill payment. The report recommends that tenants are supported to pay the bills themselves, so as to learn this valuable skill.
• For tenants actively seeking work, delays in housing benefit payments can result in rent arrears, this is one of the biggest and often unavoidable challenges of the scheme. Tenants are supported to keep up payments and put a payment plan in place to replay any arrears.

Commonweal’s Chief Executive Ashley Horsey says:
“Having now received findings from the 2nd year project evaluation, we are proud to see Peer Landlord continue to develop and help more people to live successfully and independently in the increasingly unaffordable housing market.”

Read and download the full summary report here.