Britain's welfare reforms have been accompanied by a fair
amount of bad press. Criticisms of wasted millions, poor value for money and
abandoned targets have left many landlords (and tenants) worried and sceptical.
Paying rent to the tenant rather than directly to the landlord has led to a
significant drop in the number of landlords willing to let to tenants on
benefits. Landlords need to know that there are options open to them before a
blanket ban of benefits tenants. Actions a landlord can take include,
1. If currently letting to a tenant on benefits, talk to
them about it. One survey found that 86% of social tenants believe
"strongly" that it is better for housing benefit to be paid directly
to the landlord.
2. Consider making the setting-up of a direct debit for
rent a condition of the tenancy agreement.
3. Make the day rent is due close to the day the tenant
receives their universal credit.
Read more on the Mortgage Solutions website.
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