Updated: 24/08/2020
But if you don’t contact us, we can’t help you - so please let us know as soon as possible if you’re struggling. Last year we worked with 3,600 customers to obtain £6.3 million in financial benefit.
We recognise that life has changed considerably for many people this year. We want to reassure you we’re doing all we can to support you during this difficult and uncertain time.
Legislation and guidance for residents
We understand that current conditions may have affected your finances and we want you to know we’re working to recent government legislation and guidance. The government has stated that:
- Residents should continue to pay their rent and service charges in line with their tenancy, lease or license
- There is currently no rent or service charge holiday for residents
- Tenants who are having trouble paying their rent and/or service charge should speak to their landlord as soon as possible
- An ‘eviction ban’ was in place until Sunday 23 August 2020
- This ban has been extended but only until Sunday 20 September 2020
The eviction ban is ending – what does that mean?
In March 2020, the government announced emergency legislation to suspend evictions from social or private rented accommodation for 3 months.
In June 2020, the ban was extended for 2 months until Sunday 23 August 2020.
In August 2020, the ban was extended for a further 4 weeks until Sunday 20 September 2020.
After this date landlords can start legal proceedings (both court hearings and evictions) if the resident hasn’t made a plan with them to pay outstanding rent and service charges.
What should I do if I’m struggling to pay?
If you’re struggling financially, please get in touch with us as soon as possible. One of our Tenancy Sustainment officers will work with you to find a flexible and personalised solution to your financial difficulties. Some of the ways we can help you include:
- Assistance with benefit information and claims such as Universal Credit applications
- Advice about local government financial assistance
- Employment support including advice on job hunting and training
- Payment plans that allow you to keep living in your home while you pay off your debt at a rate you can afford
Eviction is always our last resort
We don’t want to evict any of our customers. In fact we will take every step we can to avoid evicting you – it is rare for someone who is working with us to lose their home.
But if you don’t respond to any of our requests to contact us, we will initiate formal proceedings through the court. That’s why we urge you to get in touch if you are struggling with your payments - so we can support you to get the situation under control.
Get in touch
It’s easy to speak to us about your situation:
- Call us on 0800 432 0077
- Contact us online
- Live chat with us
We look forward to talking with you.