LCWRA, DRO, DHP, and a condition for DHP - looking for cheaper rent

luddyofwinter

After months of disputes, the council awarded 3 months of help with LHA.

Looking at my options.

Renting privately (1 bed)  for over 4 years, originally rented it with my ex, who has since moved out.

Made redundant 2 years ago. 

My UC statement acknowledges the joint tenancy but assesses me as responsible for the full rent.

I've recently been awarded LCWRA stressing my manic episodes that make work-related activity unsafe. Even with LCWRA, my UC won't cover my rent. - common.

I've had lengthy discussions with the council about DHP because they repeatedly appeared to misunderstand my UC statement, at one point claiming my rent was paid in full. They removed my ex from the council tax account but continued questioning my tenancy arrangements.

I previously covered the rent shortfall using credit cards and now have a Debt Relief Order (DRO). I've provided the council with evidence of this and explained how it affects my chances of passing rental checks.

Council asks me to look for cheaper rental. I already pay below market price. 

The only option would be getting a lodger (but the flat is small), but that could trigger living as a couple and being investigated by DWP.

What now?

huckster

So even when UC includes 1 bed Housing rate, the UC payment does not enable you to cover full rent, as UC Housing amount based on 1 bed LHA rate is less than the rent you are liable for?

If you cannot work and earn money from employment, then you are faced with having to move. Housing Association properties tend to be more affordable and if you find a 1 bed to rent, then UC would include full rent amount. So I would suggest that you contact the Council and ask about Housing Association/social Housing options in the local area.

itsthelittlethings

If you are eligible, look at claiming PIP. This isn't a quick process but if awarded might give you enough to cover the shortfall.

If you get a lodger they won't count as part of your household and won't affect your UC. If your mental health will support this it could be a solution.

Spoonie_Turtle

If you get a lodger they won't count as part of your household and won't affect your UC. If your mental health will support this it could be a solution.

I know the OP mentioned a lodger but this is in a 1 bedroom flat - even without mental illness in the mix, I have to doubt how realistic that would be. Not sure how many people are willing to be a lodger without their own room, unless OP were the one sleeping on the sofa. (Desperate times and all that, I know.)

itsthelittlethings

Apologies, I assumed it was a 2 bed due to the mention of a lodger.

luddyofwinter

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82191102#Comment_82191102

Hi, thank you.

I contacted them on 3 different emails. 2 did not work (provided by the council). They just seems to ignore the DRO part.

I also contacted them before DRO, when I still had ok credit.

They keep replying to look for other properties. I keep telling/asking them if they have list of landlords that would be willing to accept me.

LCWRA letter says 'im a substantial risk', I understand it does not cover looking for flats but maybe even worse.

luddyofwinter

A lady at citizen advice suggested finding a room, as her daughter pays £700 per month.

I thought maybe better to find someone for here.

HillStreetBlues

The LHA is a total joke.

Just looked with 40 miles of my area, 567 properties to rent, the cheapest is £75 more per month than the LHA. It will only get worse with the extra tax landlords have to pay next year. They will either sell up, which cuts down supply that will increase prices or pass the rise to their tenants.

EDIT there is a field that you could rent, but would have to supply your own tent.