Landlords Reluctant To Rent To Young People Denied Housing Benefit

The Government’s proposal to abolish housing benefit for those aged 18 to 21 will make it far more difficult for them to rent a home, according to the Residential Landlords Association (RLA). In a survey of over 1,000 landlords, the organisation found that 76% will be reluctant to rent accommodation to this age group once it comes into effect in April, because they fear they may not have enough money to pay the rent. The survey also showed the “devastating effects” of the Government’s planned benefit cap, with over 65% of landlords being reluctant to let properties to tenants who are of working age and on benefits because the cap might affect their ability to meet rent costs. Furthermore, the RLA said its data showed that those under 35 may also face problems accessing rented accommodation. Read more on the RLA website.