Can I increase the rent?
Other

Rachel B
Rachel B
0 Thanks
5 Posts
11 years ago
0
I rent out a property on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy that started on 20/7/09, so it's now a periodic tenancy. I was introduced to my tenant through Lambeth's housing services, who drew up the tenancy agreement. The only clause relating to rent is this 'Provided that the rent allowance figure determined by Housing Benefits is less than the contractual rent in clause 2 above. The Landlord hereby agrees to vary the rental figure payable under this tenancy to the lesser Housing Benefit figure. The Housing Benefit figure shall become the effective contractual rent payable by the tenant under this agreement. Such variation to be effective from the date of this contract."

The rent is currently £225 per week. The local housing allowance is £240 per week for a 2-bed flat and £300 for a 3-bed flat. The flat is 3 bedrooms. My tenant is a single parent with one child, so is entitled, under HB rules, to claim for a 2-bed flat. I'd like to raise the rent to £240 per week, as my tenant will still be able to claim HB. (I set it lower at first, because she was able to claim an extra £15 under previous regulations, which have now changed).

Can I put the rent up under this agreement? If not, what can I do to change the agreement? I don't want to lose this excellent tenant, but costs are rising.

Thanks for your help.

Rachel

Please Login

You must be logged in to participate in our forums, to continue please login below.

Not a member? From only £99 you can join in the discussion and get access to member's only resources and services.

As the home for landlords, the NRLA are here to help you save time, save money, and stay compliant. NRLA membership gives you access to a vast range of expertise, resources, and exclusive member benefits and savings, designed to help and empower members. We also play a pivotal role in campaigning and championing the interests of landlords.