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How To Get Help With Rent Arrears
What are rent arrears?
Rent arrears occur when a tenant falls behind on their rent payments. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as losing a job or having an unexpected expense. If you find yourself in rent arrears, it’s important to take action immediately and get help with rent arrears to avoid any negative consequences.
There are a few things you can do to get help with rent arrears. If you’re on a low income, you may be eligible for government assistance programs that can help you cover your rent payments or you can also talk to a financial counsellor to get advice on managing your money and avoiding rent arrears in the future.
Taking action early is the best way to avoid any serious consequences of rent arrears, so make sure you seek help as soon as possible if you’re having trouble making rent.
What are the consequences of rent arrears?
If you fall into rent arrears, your landlord may take legal action against you. This could result in eviction or make it more challenging in getting credit in the future.
When struggling to make rent, it’s important to seek help early to avoid any serious consequences.
5 potential consequences of rent arrears are:
1. Legal action from your landlord
If you have rent arrears, your landlord can take you to court either to evict you from the property or to receive the money they are legally due. Depending on whether your landlord is a social housing landlord or private landlord, the process for initiating court action differs. Social housing landlords are required to follow a rent arrears pre-action protocol before proceeding with court action.
2. Eviction
Eviction is often sought by a landlord if you have fallen into rent arrears. This legally happens through a court procedure known as “seeking possession.” This process must be followed after a court order is granted before a landlord can force you to leave your home.
3. Damage to your credit score
Landlords don’t normally report rent arrears to credit reporting agencies. However, if you have rent arrears and your landlord pursues a money order in the courts, this will show on your credit history, normally for six years, and consequently negatively impact your credit score.
4. Difficulty finding new housing
If a landlord has previously pursued a money order and received a CCJ in their favour, then it will likely make it more difficult in finding rent elsewhere. Often it is necessary to have a rent guarantor if you have a CCJ in your history.
5. Stress
Rent arrears can cause turmoil in various ways. The toll it takes on your mental state cannot be overstated. Facing potential court action or even eviction is a stressful time for anyone and it is important to know that there is help and solutions available.
What options are there for help with rent arrears?
There are a few things you can do to get out of rent arrears:
- Talk to your landlord. If you explain your situation and work out a payment plan, they may be willing to work with you.
- Get help from a government or charity program. When struggling to make ends meet, there are organisations that can help.
- Negotiate with your creditors. If you have other debts, you may be able to negotiate a lower monthly payment amount and free up money for rent repayment.
- Take on extra work. If you can earn additional income, you’ll be able to catch up on your rent payments quicker.
- Cut back on expenses. Review your budget and see where you can cut back in order to free up more money for rent.
Where can I get help with rent arrears?
If you’re struggling to make rent payments, there are a few places you can turn for help:
- Contact your local authority. They may be able to offer advice or financial assistance.
- Talk to a financial counsellor. They can help you manage your money and avoid rent arrears in the future.
- Seek legal advice. If you’re facing eviction, it’s important to understand your rights and options.
- Government programs. If you’re low-income, you may be eligible for government assistance.
- Charities. There are many charities that offer financial assistance to those in need.
- Credit counselling. A credit counsellor can help you negotiate with creditors and develop a budget.
Taking action early is the best way to avoid serious consequences of rent arrears. If you require help with rent arrears, talk to your landlord, seek help from a government or charity program, or get advice from a financial counsellor. With some effort, you should be able to get back on track.