Most problems can be resolved quickly and easily by talking to your landlord or letting agent.
If you have problems paying your rent, you should speak to your landlord as soon as possible. They might be able to help you and stop the process going further.
Rent is a priority payment. You're at higher risk of eviction if you miss payments.
Help with rent
If you are struggling with your rent, you may be able to get:
- Universal Credit – Monthly payment to help with your housing costs
- Housing Benefit - helps you pay your rent if you are on a low income
- Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) - a short-term measure to make up the shortfall or as a one off payment
- Residents Support Fund - an emergency grant or interest free loan for people who live in Brent
If you need help to sort out your budget and make your money go further visit our money advice page (link to money advice page)
Protection from eviction
Landlords must follow strict procedures if they want you to leave your home. They may be guilty of harassing or illegally evicting you if they do not follow the correct procedures.
Landlords must provide you with the correct notice period and they can only legally remove you from your home by obtaining a court order for possession and arranging for a warrant to be executed by court bailiffs or sheriffs.
Read about eviction and your rights in England on the Shelter website
If you have paid a deposit, then you must check that it will be protected in a government approved tenancy deposit protection (TDP) scheme before you sign your tenancy agreement. This scheme offers a free dispute resolution service if you disagree with your landlord about how much deposit should be returned at the end of your tenancy.
If your landlord fails to provide you with adequate information on your scheme or has not held your deposit in a scheme, you can contact us for advice.