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Struggling financially

If you are struggling financially to pay for your home, there are a variety of ways in which the Housing Options team can help.  We can offer advice and support regarding:

Rent arrears

Rent arrears are priority debts.  If you have rent arrears on a property you live in, it's important to contact the landlord or letting agent quickly to offer a way to repay what you owe.  If you don't you're at risk of eviction.

If you're looking to rent with arrears on a previous property, you might find it difficult for a landlord to rent to you. There's also the possibility that court action will be taken against you to recover what you owe.

Holding deposits

Usually 1 week's rent paid to hold the property whilst the landlord carries out checks to see if you're a suitable tenant. If you pass the checks you'll be offered the tenancy and the holding deposit will be deducted from the first month's rent or the rent deposit.  If you don't pass the checks, the money will be refunded to you.

Rent in advance

Usually one month's rent up front before you move in.  Your rent will then be due on the same day each month thereafter.

Rent deposits

Payments made to the landlord to ensure you meet the terms of your tenancy agreement, don't damage the property and pay your rent and bills.  If you breach any of these, the landlord can use the rent deposit to cover any costs incurred.  The maximum the landlord can ask for is 5 weeks' worth of rent.  The deposit must be protected in a proper scheme and you must be given a certificate to confirm this has been done. Click the Tenancy deposit protection (opens new window) link for more information. 

Discretionary Housing Payments

If you need financial assistance for any of the above, and are in receipt of Housing Benefit or Universal Credit Housing Costs, the Housing Options team can offer advice on how to apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment.  Click the link Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support (opens new window) and scroll to the bottom of the page for the policy and the application form.  Awards are not guaranteed and are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Other useful services: