I’m Behind With My Rent
If you are falling behind with rent, deal with it early rather than waiting for the balance and worry to grow.
If you are falling behind with rent, deal with it early rather than waiting for the balance and worry to grow.
Rent arrears are a priority debt because serious arrears can put your tenancy at risk.
Find out exactly what you owe
Ask for or download a rent statement and check the balance. Make sure Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs have been credited correctly.
If a benefit payment is missing or wrong, deal with that separately rather than assuming the rent account is accurate.
Speak to your landlord
Contact the landlord and explain the position. If you can make an affordable payment towards the arrears, discuss it, but do not promise more than your budget allows.
Keep records of agreements and continue paying your current rent where you can.
Check additional housing support
If benefits do not meet your full rent, ask the council about the current additional housing-cost scheme. In England this is now the Crisis and Resilience Fund Housing Payment rather than a DHP.
A benefits check may also identify other income.
What if I have received a notice?
Do not ignore possession notices, court papers or hearing dates.
Get specialist housing advice promptly. There may be steps that can still be taken, but deadlines matter.
Look at the whole financial picture
If this problem is part of a wider shortage of money, list all debts and essential spending and arrange free debt advice.
The aim is an affordable plan for the household, not simply stopping the next phone call or letter.
7.40: What Are Priority and Non-Priority Debts?
7.50: Where Can I Get Free Debt Advice?
7.56: What Questions Should I Ask Before Agreeing to a Debt Solution?
Important information
This guide provides general information and is not intended to provide financial, benefits, debt, housing or legal advice. Individual circumstances can be different. Check current information from official sources and seek advice from an appropriately qualified or authorised adviser before making important financial decisions.