What if I have a problem paying my rent?
Contact: Lisa Wilson
Ruchazie Housing Association knows that some tenants may face money problems, which may affect their ability to pay rent regularly. If this happens you must get in touch with us immediately as experience has shown that the earlier these problems are dealt with the easier it is to resolve.
Our staff will do all that they can to assist any tenant who finds
Our staff can also give you information and advice on Housing Benefit & Universal Credit and put you in touch with other organisations who can give you advice about any debt that is worrying you, not just your rent. Please remember it is your responsibility to keep your rent account up to date.
Although we take a sympathetic view if people are experiencing difficulty in paying rent, we must still maximise the income we receive and as such we will take action against any tenant who does not pay their rent or maintain arrangements to repay rent arrears. Rent arrears may prevent a transfer or mutual exchange application.
You are responsible for ensuring that the rent is paid for your home every month, even if you qualify for Housing benefit or Universal credit. We encourage all tenants to check with ourselves or the Welfare Advice Service ( GEMAP) if they may be eligible for financial support - this could be If you work part-time or have a low paid job and may be eleigble for assistance with your housing costs via Housing Benefit OR Universal Credit.
Housing Benefit is a government subsidy administered by the local authority (Glasgow City Council), generally only paid to those above pension age.
Universal Credit Universal Credit is a means-tested social secuity payment for wqorking age individuals who are unemployed, on a low income, or unable to work. It is designed to help with living costs and includes support for housing, children, and disabilities and helps people who are on lower incomes to pay their rent. If you qualify , you will pay a reduced rent (or perhaps no rent at all) every month.
If you are in any doubt as to whether you would qualify for assistance then you should apply, the worst they can say is no. If you apply for housing benefit or universal credit it is important that you submit a fully completed claim, with all information complete. If additional information is requested, you must ensure that this is provided straight away as failure can result in your claim being made ineligible. If you feel that you may be entitled to help with housing costs please contact us where we will be happy to provide help and support.
LEGAL ACTION
If tenants fail to pay rent or make an acceptable repayment arrangement the Association will have to start court proceedings which could result in arrestement of earnings and or eviction. Such action is alwat=ys the last resort but it may be required if matters are not resolved early.