PRS organisations combine to offer tenant support advice

Amidst concerns about the impact that the virus has had on tenant finances, the NRLA, Chartered Institute of Housing, Property Redress Scheme, My Deposits, Tenancy Deposit Scheme and ARLA Propertymark are launching guidance offering practical ways in which landlords and tenants can work to address arrears that might be building as a result of the pandemic.

The guidance includes the need for both parties to flag up any problems that might be arising early on, along with advice about measures that can be taken such as agreeing rent deferrals, reductions and suspensions.

It provides support also for tenants applying for benefits where need be and points to resources available to help develop budgeting plans to ensure that tenants can cover the cost of essential items.

In a joint statement, the group said:

“COVID-19 has posed significant challenges for both tenants and landlords. As a group we are committed to doing everything possible to sustain tenancies both through and beyond this period of crisis.

“The guidance being launched today has an important role to play in achieving this and we encourage all tenants and landlords to work through it together in a spirit of positive co-operation.”

The debt guidance can be accessed at: https://news.rla.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/rent-arrears-management-guidance.pdf.