Housing benefit (information for landlords)

Tenants can no longer choose to have their benefit paid direct to their landlord.

However, in order to safeguard tenancies we can consider direct payment of benefit if the following terms are included in any new/existing tenancies;

1. The tenant hereby agrees that the initial first payment of any Housing Benefit claim be sent direct to the landlord.
2. The tenant agrees that the condition of offering his tenancy is subject to all/any initial and future payments of Housing Benefit are made directly to the agent/landlord.

We encourage tenants and landlords to set up a standing order or direct debit. Payment can also be made by crossed cheque.

The landlord can be paid direct without the tenant's consent if the tenant is in arrears by the equivalent of 8 weeks rent or the tenant has difficulty managing their finances. A written request must be made and supporting evidence provided.