Rent and coronavirus

What do I do if I can’t pay my rent because of coronavirus?

If it looks like you’ll have problems with your rent because of coronavirus, get in touch with your landlord ASAP.

The Government has said that landlords won’t be able to start evicting tenants for the next three months. This won’t affect evictions that’re already underway. They’re considering extending this notice period to six months because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

You should still check if you landlord will work out a repayment plan with you.

As of the time of writing, you don’t have an automatic right to a rent holiday and you may be expected to make up arrears through a repayment plan after three months.

If you’re unhappy with the way you landlord is treating you and it sounds like they’re going against the Government’s advice, your best bet is to make a formal complaint to them in writing.

If their behaviour continues, you can then take the matter up with your local council. They can investigate the matter for you.

If even the local council can’t help, your only way forward is to take the matter to court. Always seek legal advice before going to court!

Can I get any help with my rent?

If you already claim housing benefit or universal credit, you should know that the local housing allowance has been increased to cover 30% of the market rent in your area. This should help cover your rent.

If you don’t already receive housing support, you can make a universal credit application.

There’s more information on how to apply for universal credit here: https://www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit