Social Rented Housing – Parliamentary Written Answer

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what assistance his Department is providing to those unable to meet their financial commitments as a result of rising rent and service charges; and what steps he is taking to prevent housing associations raising such costs.

Grant Shapps: Any tenants facing difficulties in meeting the cost of their rent or service charges should discuss this with their landlord. The regulatory framework requires registered providers to develop and provide services that will support tenants to maintain their tenancy and prevent unnecessary evictions.  Tenants on low incomes are also supported by the housing benefit system, depending on individual circumstance. As well as talking to their landlords, tenants should also discuss what support is available with their local authority.