Renting advice
Private tenants
You should inform your landlord if you are having difficulty
keeping up to date with rent payments. You should then try to agree
a plan for paying off rent and arrears. This can be done through an
agreed debt management plan. Be careful not to agree to pay more
than you can budget for and be aware of the fact that arrears that
build up will have to be paid off.
Landlord repossession
If your landlord has difficulty keeping up their mortgage
repayments it is possible that the mortgage lender can repossess
the property. If you believe that this is possible you should first
speak to your landlord. If your landlord confirms that this is
possible you should seek legal advice.
Council tenants
If you are having difficulty keeping up to date with rent
payments you should contact your district/borough council as soon
as possible. They can advise you on the different options that are
available.
Housing benefits
You may be entitled to housing benefits even if you do not
receive any other benefits. Housing benefits may be available
for:
- anyone renting from a private landlord
- anyone renting from a housing association
- lodgers
- sub-tenants
- those living in a hostel
If the Housing Benefit you receive does not cover your rent you
may be able to access the 'discretionary housing payment'. This can
provide you with extra money to help cover these costs. Contact
your local borough/district council for more information.
You may find it useful to talk to a debt agency to plan your
finances and benefits available to you