Freedom of information response

Rent prediction/gathering algorithms

Publication date: 
Monday 8 April 2024
Request: 

I'm requesting information on any rent-prediction or rent-gathering algorithms used by the council. Please provide me a list of tools, either in-house or through a third-party agent, the council uses to: 

•    Analyse the cost of housing in the area
•    Predict a tenant's ability to pay rent
•    Facilitate a tenant paying their rent

I would also like a copy of the most recent risk assessment of any algorithms that are used.

Response: 

I'm requesting information on any rent-prediction or rent-gathering algorithms used by the council. Please provide me a list of tools, either in-house or through a third-party agent, the council uses to: 

  • Analyse the cost of housing in the area

This is completed via HomeTrack which is a subscription site that aggregates data from a range of sources.

  • Predict a tenant's ability to pay rent

N/A

  • Facilitate a tenant paying their rent

Rent Sense which is provided by a third party (Mobysoft).

  • I would also like a copy of the most recent risk assessment of any algorithms that are used.

This is not held by Thurrock Council. It is held by Mobysoft.

Request reference:
FOI 13591