The Highland Council is inviting private landlords and providers of short-term lets, including Airbnb hosts, who may be interested in leasing their property to the council to get in touch in an effort to tackle homelessness during the coronavirus pandemic.

Housing staff are interested in speaking to landlords and owners who have a self-contained property, without shared facilities, and subject to set minimum standards.

Councillor Ben Thompson, chair of the housing and property committee, said: “The COVID-19 outbreak has affected all aspects of our daily lives and we have seen increased pressure on our homelessness service, including demand from the loss of tied accommodation in the hotel industry. The current situation is making it extremely difficult for us to provide suitable accommodation for people who are homeless at this difficult time. 

“We know that private landlords and providers of short-term lets across the Highlands are being hit hard by coronavirus in terms of reduced bookings. We are encouraging anyone in such a position to consider temporarily leasing their property to the council. Not only will this ensure that the property owner is able to maintain a regular cash-flow alongside the guaranteed management of the property for a negotiated period, but they will also be helping their community and be supporting our response to this crisis.” 

Any households placed in accommodation will continue to be provided with ongoing support by the council. 

• Read all of our articles relating to COVID-19 here.