Housing after splitting up

a6915137

Hi,

Can you please advise on this issue?

I have moved back (with my kids) to live with my ex-partner about a year ago. Now, unfortunately we decide to split up again. The issue I have is related to the house. When I moved back, my ex-partner was already living in this house, he has only his name in the contract, when I moved with him, he didn’t bother to let the landlady know.

So now, I prefer that I stay (with the kids) in this house as it is close to the school, my partner has no issue with that, but I don’t have my name in the contract.

In addition to this, I am not working at the moment as I am a full-time mum, So I cannot afford to pay the rent immediately, so I need to relay on some sort of benefit until I get job.

I am not sure how to approach the landlady about this.

what benefit I am entitled to as I have child who is 2 years old ?

We had no issue with the landlady so far, the rent is paid by direct debit every month.

My partner has no issue to be a guarantor for me or even pay the rent while waiting for the housing benefit application to be processed.

Can you please share your wisdom?
Thanks a lot

poppy12345

You won't be able to start a new claim for housing benefit because all areas are now a full Universal Credit area, so you'll need to claim this for help with your rent. I'm assuming your partner is moving out?



If it's just yourself and your child then you'll be entitled to the 2 bedroom rate of LHA. Check here how much that is for your area.

https://lha-direct.voa.gov.uk/



To claim for the housing element in with your UC payments, you'll need a tenancy agreement in your name. Speak to your landlord regarding this. You should also be aware that some mortgage companies will not allow tenants that claim benefits, so there could be issues here.



If you're claiming tax credits, this will stop when you claim UC and you'll receive payments in with your UC monthly payment.


Put your details into the calculator and it will tell you how much you could claim. https://www.entitledto.co.uk/

System

As the rental contract in his name, does not include you and the landlady doesn't know you're there, I think she would be within her rights to give notice to quit. That is not your fault, but it might be wiser to get in touch with her immediately and before applying for any housing benefit etc, you do need to make sure that you living there is acceptable to her, and a contract made out with your name on it. I'm not an expert so do take advice from someone who knows more, the CAB, and others on here will have info.