I am on a low income and cannot afford to repay the sum outstanding in regard to the arrears at my previous tenancy.
We are prepared to accept payments over a reasonable period of time, by instalments periods to suit your finances, however if you feel you are unable to achieve this, I would advise that you contact the CAB who can offer advice and support regarding debt management.

I have received a letter from the rent officer, quoting that my rent will be £82.00 per week following this year's increase, but I am only currently paying £62.00 per week, why is the increase so high?
The rent officer has advised of the maximum chargeable rent, not the amount to which we intend to increase your rent. We would not apply such a large increase, although you should realise this is a biannual increase, so will account for two years percentage increases. We will write to you giving you at least 28 days notice of the intended increase, at which point you are welcome to raise any queries.

The rent increase letter comments upon government guidelines introduced in 2002 that have affected my rent increase, can you explain what this means?
The government guidelines relate to a Target rent that we must be within 0.5% of by 2011/12. It is designed to bring houses of a similar value and size within a locality to a similar rent rate. In your case the Target rent is lower than your current charge, so we are applying our usual percentage increase year on year minus a £1.50 deduction to bring it closer to the Target rent.

How can I pay my rent?
There a number of payment options and these are:

• Payment card which can be used at a Post Office or any local shop with the PayPoint sign
• Standing Order
• Direct Debit - In order to setup a direct debit, please call the rent team on 0800 083 9283.
• Debit/Credit card over the telephone

Are there any rent free weeks?
No - rent has to be paid 52 weeks a year

Why does my account look as if it is in arrears when I receive full Housing Benefit?
Housing Benefit is usually paid four weekly in arrears. Therefore for three weeks, your account will appear as if it is in arrears until the Housing Benefit is received.

How often are statements automatically sent out?
Twice a year. At the end of March and the end of September.

Rent is charged weekly, but can I pay monthly?
Although it is acceptable to pay your rent other than weekly, these payments need to be paid in advance to conform to the Tenancy Agreement. Therefore, if you are paying monthly for example, your account must be paid a month in advance.