LHA Question

newbie1981

Just a quick question re Local Housing Allowance - I have recently split with my partner - I work full time and will be entitled to help under the new LHA scheme as I have little ones, but I do not want my landlord to know I am claiming - do councils inform landlords that their tenants are claiming?

IcyEars

Not usually. As long as you can provide proof that you are liable for the rent, i.e. tenancy agreement, rent book then they will have no need to contact your landlord.

The LHA is much simpler to administrate than HB as it is based on the number of bedrooms and area so no inspections etc. It is also paid directly to the tenant unless the landlord requests otherwise because the tenant is in more than 8 weeks of arrears with rent or the tenant is vulnerable.

fluffymovie

Hi there

Under LHA, LA's are not able to speak to your landlord unless you give written permission to do so. Even then, most authorities would only give very limited informatoin such as if you have made a claim, if a decision has been made and if more information is required.

However, you need to be careful as some landlords have mortgages which state that they are not able to let to people on Housing Benefit. Just a thought!

PasturesNew

If you fall behind in the rent, they do have the ability to get the rent paid directly to them if they know you're on LHA. And if you're behind they will find out because they'll want their money and you'll end up telling them probably to avoid eviction.