Universal credit chaos leaves tenants in tears

The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) has sparked fury as Universal Credit (UC) applicants face extensive demands to confirm their eligibility.

One landlord told Property118 that some of his tenants have been “left in tears” as they can not comply with the list of demands.

One of the demands asks to see a full-body picture including the feet of the tenant standing in the doorway of the property.

DWP’s list of demands

The list of extensive demands includes sending the DWP a copy of the full tenancy agreement, a photo of a driving licence including a selfie picture holding the licence, and a letter from a school showing children’s confirmation of attendance.

Other demands include a passport photo, council tax and utility bills and recent wage slips.

The DWP also wants to see a letter from the landlord which confirms what the rent covers e.g council tax, gas, electricity and water.

They also want to know the property’s recent EPC rating and a photo of the tenant at the front door of the property which shows the door and the door number.

Abusing their position

Mick Roberts, one of Nottingham’s largest landlords housing benefit tenants, says the demands are just too much.

He told Property118: “The Department of Work and Pensions is abusing their position and power.

“I have had to help four tenants with their proof for Universal Credit, they have been left in tears as they can’t comply with all of the documents.”

Mr Roberts tenants have been told to send proof before the end of the month otherwise their UC payments could be affected.

Protect against fraud

When approached for comment by Property118, the Department for Work and Pensions said these checks were necessary to protect against fraud.

A spokesperson told Property118: “Our benefits system is designed to support the most vulnerable in society whilst also ensuring the public purse is protected against fraud.

“Support is provided for claimants when requests for evidence are made during case reviews.”

The Department say they have launched a robust plan to drive down fraud and error from the benefits system.

The DWP adds they are committed to cracking down on those who set out to steal from the public purse, boosting resources through their Fraud Plan to help save more than £9 billion by 2027/28.