Rent Arrears!!!

Lou67

Hi just looking if anyone can advise me, I was due to move from a private let to a housing association flat, I got the flat due to my health, I was due to move just as we went into lockdown so wasn’t able to, DWP are still paying rent for the private let meanwhile the rent in other flat not been paid, I’m just worried about what will happen, I’m hoping to move next week, I’m on benefits so get my rent paid. Sorry for long post. 

Lou67

Hi@Woodbine Oh I actually got the keys the end of February I paid the first months rent myself as I had to give my landlord a months notice, so there will be 2 months rent due, my new housing officer has been in contact with me and she doesn’t even know if I will be able to get help to pay it off, sorry I’m maybe worrying to much as this was out of my control, I’m hoping to get moved in maybe next week, thanks for your reply.

Adrian_Scope

Hello @Lou67. If the new HA are unwilling to help given that you were unable to move in (was this their policy too?) then you could look at applying for a DHP (discretionary housing payment) from your local council to help cover the arrears at the new place. They're not guaranteed but can be really useful in this sort of situation. 

Lou67

Morning @Adrian_Scope. Well they understood I was waiting on white goods from the welfare fund, it was due to be delivered to me on the 27th after we went into lockdown but they had to cancel, the housing officer has phoned me twice but didn’t really know what the outcome will be, but thankyou I will contact the council when they open there lines again and ask about the DHP thanks again. 

Lou67

@Adrian_Scope To let you understand the white goods that are in the house I’m in just now belong to the landlord as I’m in a private let, so didn’t have them to move. 

Adrian_Scope

That's totally understandable @Lou67. I hope they're able to help you with a DHP so you can get this sorted. 

Lou67

@Adrian_Scope Just want to say a big thankyou to you and everyone on this forum, Iv found it a great place since joining a few weeks back ?

Adrian_Scope

I'm glad you joined us then @Lou67. We've loved having you here too.