Wading through ‘info-overload’ amidst the pandemic

We understand that amidst these uncertain times, there is an enormous amount of new information being released every day. One of the things we are hearing is that, because every individual’s circumstances are different, landlords are finding it difficult to cut through all of the information in order to access what is relevant to them.

As a service which provides advice to private landlords, letting agencies and housing associations on Universal Credit and Housing Benefit, we are all too aware of the increasing financial pressure that landlords and tenants are under as a result of COVID-19.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has reported that more than one million people in the UK have applied for Universal Credit since the start of the pandemic. This means that thousands more landlords, who have no prior experience of the welfare system, are suddenly finding themselves with tenants who are having to claim Universal Credit.

CLS offering phone and video consultations

We are here to offer support, advice and assistance to landlords who want to understand Universal Credit. We will show you how you can help your tenants to claim the right amount, which will ensure they can cover their rent and, where necessary, help you to apply for an APA (an Alternative Payment Arrangement is where the housing element of Universal Credit is paid directly to the landlord instead of the tenant). We can also assist with setting up Third Party Deductions to cover rent arrears.

• Universal Credit – Our team have extensive experience in helping tenants and landlords who have UC related issues. We can resolve even the most complex situations that arise from this new system.
• Housing Benefit is a payment delivered through the local authority, which helps individuals to pay their rent if they are on a low income or unemployed. If set up correctly, Housing Benefit is a reliable and consistent method of paying rent for both tenants and landlords.
• Rent Issues – The most important aspect of any tenancy is the rent. Landlords need security and a steady income stream from their properties. In the current climate, landlords and tenants are concerned about rent arrears. We can help with communication and mediation to help keep the tenancy on track and set up agreed payment plans which work for both parties.
• Tenancy Support – We also provide a range of tenancy support so if you are managing your property yourself for the first time, or are thinking of doing so, you can talk to us about referencing, check-in and check-out, inspections, access, maintenance, tenant problems, ending or renewing a tenancy, eviction services and compliance checks.

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