NLA welcomes housing allowance decision

Landlords with property to rent in Bristol, among other locations across the country, may be interested to hear about a new housing allowance decision.

The National Landlord's Association has welcomed the news that a Housing Benefit Tribunal has upheld a claim concerning rent arrears.

It was posited that tenant arrears should begin as soon as the due date has passed in a case involving Coventry city council.

However, the Department for Work and Pensions guidance states "a person cannot be in rent arrears in respect of a period that has not yet been served", which has seen some local authorities refuse direct imbursement of rent after eight weeks of failed payment - something landlords can apply for.

Richard Price, director of operations at the National Landlord's Association (NLA), commented on the decision by the Coventry Appeal Tribunal, which stated rent is in arrears once the date has passed.

He said: "It is quite clear that the normal rules of renting should apply to Local Housing Allowance.

"This decision is good news for landlords … Those who are experiencing similar problems should consider highlighting this decision to their local authority."

Meanwhile, Steven Hilton, spokesperson for the NLA, recently said high property prices and lack of affordable mortgages is preventing first-time buyers from stepping onto the property ladder.