Social housing rent increases
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland
Your landlord sets the amount of rent you have to pay. The type of tenancy you have will make no difference. The rent is usually less than private landlords would charge for a similar property.
As part of its 2010 spending review, the Government announced that the rents that council and housing association landlords can charge new tenants will be set at 80 per cent of market levels in future. This change will not affect you if you are an existing tenant. See our page on the spending review for more information.
Rent and service charges
Your tenancy agreement will tell when you should pay your rent. Your landlord will give you rent statements showing how much rent was due and how much rent was paid. It may be possible to pay your rent in different ways, such as in person, over the phone, or through your bank. Your rent may also include charges for water rates or services, such as heating or the use of a garage. Ask your landlord exactly what it includes if this is not clear.
What if I'm having problems paying it?
Your rent should always be your top financial priority because you could lose your home if you don't pay it. You may be able to claim housing benefit if you are on benefits or have a low income. Ask your council office for an application form as soon as possible, if you need to claim. If you need extra financial help, you may be able to get a discretionary housing payment.
If you're struggling to pay your rent or you have already fallen behind, contact an independent adviser straightaway. This is especially important if you have a demoted tenancy, an introductory tenancy or a family intervention tenancy because you can be evicted much more easily than other tenants. It is often possible to sort things out if you act quickly. If you don't do anything, the situation is likely to get worse and you might risk losing your home.
What can I do about rent increases?
Check your tenancy agreement to see what it says about how the rent can be increased. Your landlord normally has to give you written notice first and should give you at least four weeks' notice. It is very difficult to challenge rent increases if you rent from the council or a housing association, even if they seem unfair. But if you decide you want to challenge a rent increase, contact Citizens Advice or a Shelter advice centre for advice first. Use our directory to find an adviser in your area.
