Rent Arrears Explained

Rent arrears occur when you fall behind on your rent payments. If you owe rent to your landlord, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.

Rent arrears are a priority debt because they could put your home at risk if the situation is not addressed.

People can fall into rent arrears for many reasons, including:

• Changes in income.
• Job loss or reduced working hours.
• Increases in household costs.
• Delays in benefit payments.
• Illness or unexpected life events.
• Relationship breakdown.

If you are struggling to pay your rent, you are not alone. Support may be available.

If you miss a rent payment, your landlord will usually contact you to discuss the arrears.

If the arrears continue to increase, your landlord may:

• Send reminder letters or messages.
• Ask you to agree a repayment plan.
• Begin legal action to recover the debt.
• Seek possession of the property in some circumstances.

The action taken will depend on your tenancy type and individual situation.

1. Don't Ignore the Problem

The sooner you act, the more options are likely to be available.

Open any letters, emails or messages from your landlord and respond promptly.

2. Speak to Your Landlord

Your landlord may be willing to:

• Agree a repayment arrangement.
• Give you extra time to catch up.
• Consider temporary reduced payments.

Being proactive can often prevent the situation from escalating.

3. Check Your Benefits

You may be entitled to financial support, including:

• Universal Credit
• Housing Benefit (in certain circumstances)
• Council Tax Reduction
• Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)

A benefits check can help ensure you are receiving all the support you are entitled to.

4. Prepare a Budget

A household budget can help identify:

• Essential living costs
• Available income
• Areas where spending can be reduced
• Affordable repayment amounts

5. Seek Advice Early

Free advice can help you understand your options and avoid further action.

If your landlord sends you a formal notice regarding rent arrears:

• Read the notice carefully.
  
• Do not ignore it.
• Seek advice as soon as possible.
• Keep copies of any correspondence.
• Continue paying your current rent if you can.

Receiving a notice does not always mean you will immediately lose your home, but it is important to act quickly.

You may be able to get help through:

• Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)
• Local welfare support schemes
• Charitable grants
• Housing support services
• Debt advice services

If rent arrears are not addressed, they can lead to:

• Increased debt.
• Stress and financial difficulties.
• Legal action.
• Risk of eviction.
• Difficulty securing future accommodation.

Our advisors can help you:

• Understand your rent arrears.
• Check your benefit entitlement.
• Create a realistic budget.
• Explore options for managing arrears.
• Access additional financial support.

Contact our team for free, confidential advice and support.