How to negotiate a rent reduction
Try to talk about lower payments with your landlord if you are struggling with rent.
What to say
Let your landlord know if you have problems such as:
universal credit payment delays
increasing energy costs
money problems since furlough ended
Tell them if you:
can change your situation in future, for example, you may get more work
have applied for universal credit help and how long you have to wait
have a payment proposal
Use our template letter
I am writing to notify you of a change in my income due to: write the reason
I have checked Shelter’s website. I'm following their advice to negotiate a payment amount for my rent due on: write your next rent payment date
I am taking these steps to increase my income [choose any]:
I am looking for work
I am waiting to hear about a job offer
I have applied for universal credit and am waiting for my first payment
other steps you may be taking
I can pay you: write the amount you can pay and how long for
I look forward to your response. I will keep you updated on changes to my situation.
I will be in contact next month to discuss future rent payments.
Proof of agreements
Keep a record of any agreement about rent or arrears repayments.
Mediation may help solve rent disputes.
If your landlord will not give you a reduction
If you already have rent arrears, use these template letters to write to your landlord.
Your landlord may be more likely to agree to a temporary rent reduction if you have a repayment plan.
For example, if you can show a plan to pay arrears back.
Make your rent your priority payment.
Find out how to deal with rent arrears if your debts are increasing.
Last updated: 28 February 2022
