Rent
The rental paid by you is made up of 4 separate charges:-
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Rent
Is set by the Association (or set by the DSD for tenancies created before 16/9/92)
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Rates
Are set by the local authority (Department of Finance and Personnel) as a percentage of your rental element
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Housing Service Charge
Is set by the Association and covers administration, communal heating, lighting and cleaning of the communal areas. Also, the maintenance and/or replacement of laundry equipment and common room furnishings.
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Support Service Charge
Is set as per the Supporting People Subsidy Contract and covers Sheltered Scheme Manager costs, Fold Telecare costs and window cleaning.
These charges are subject to review every April and you will be notified by letter of any changes 4 weeks in advance in accordance with the Association’s rental policy.
Service Charges differ throughout all our schemes and will reflect the level of facilities and support at each individual scheme.
Rental Payment Methods
On commencement of your tenancy you will be advised on the various rental payment methods available.
The preferred 2 methods of payment are:-
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Rental payment swipe card
Enables you to make payments at any Post Office or outlets displaying the Pay point or Pay zone signs.
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Direct Debit
Payable on a fortnightly or calendar monthly basis. The Housing Officer can assist you in completing the relevant paperwork.
Cheques are also acceptable in mitigating circumstances.
Rent Arrears
It is essential that you pay your rent on or before the due date. However, if an arrear accrues on your rent account the Housing Officer will inform you by letter and/or a home visit. He/She will offer advice and discuss the options available to you for repayment of the arrear and for future payments.
Non-payment of rent is in breach of your Tenancy Agreement.
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Help with Paying your Rent
If you feel that you may qualify for help with your rental payments there are currently 3 different benefits available.
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Housing Benefit
(a means tested benefit which can be paid to either tenant or landlord)
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Rates Relief
(a means tested benefit which will be paid to landlord only)
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Lone Pensioner Allowance
(a non-means tested benefit paid to Landlord only for tenants, living alone, aged 70 or over)
For more information and an application form you should contact either the Housing Officer or your local Northern Ireland Housing Executive office.
Alternatively you can download the following documents from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive Website by clicking on the following links:-
Housing Benefit & Rates Relief Application Form
Lone Pensioners Allowance Application Form
You should note that if you are entitled to and are awarded Housing Benefit the Support Charge element will be paid on your behalf directly to PHA.
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