The purpose of this policy is to help residents pay their rent on time, prevent arrears from building up, and provide support where people are struggling to meet their council housing costs.
The policy covers:
- tenants’ responsibilities for paying rent and service charges
- the different ways rent can be paid
- support and advice for tenants experiencing financial difficulties
- arrangements for repaying rent arrears
- how we identify and manage arrears at an early stage
- additional support for vulnerable tenants
- the circumstances in which legal action may be taken
- the management of arrears relating to joint tenancies, garages, licences and temporary accommodation
- the treatment of arrears following the death of a tenant, bankruptcy or debt relief orders
complaints, confidentiality, monitoring and performance arrangements
The policy also explains the roles and responsibilities of council officers and sets out how arrears cases will be managed fairly, consistently and in line with legal requirements.
The overall aim is to maximise rental income, support tenants to sustain their tenancies, and ensure public housing resources are managed effectively.
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