In the UK there is another problem. Many landlords will refuse anyone on benefits. I have looked at advertisements for even the simplest accommodation....and the general rule is "No pets, no smoking, no DHSS" (Department of Health and Socal Security.)
I can never quite understand that (of course I can understand the smoking rule) but not the 'benefits' one. Once the housing benefit is set up, the cheque comes regularly to the landlord. Payment is assured; usually by bank transfer either weekly or monthly. Of course, problems CAN occur...such as the benefit being cut off for some reason, or short-term 'hitches' such as a change of benefit from -say Invalidity, to working tax credits....etc. But it usually gets sorted out and back-pay given.
However, on average, it usually works out as payment by clockwork.
In my opinion, those possible negativities are equal to other possible delays in payment which could happen with even a working tenant.
Many people who are on the cusp of being homeless, or who have just managed to scratch their way up from being homeless, are receiving benefits of one kind or another, and probably qualify for housing benefit.
But if landlords won't accept that -then what?
I honestly think we could do with a dose of empathy from property owners. Of course, they don't want their property trashed, or have to wait months for rent payments. But if they could just give a little.....? Strict rules on the terms of the contract, and a little less laziness on the part of the landlords (i.e. being willing to make regular inspections etc) plus a willingness to have a little patience with the housing officers -would all help. The housing officers are not monsters.
I can never quite understand that (of course I can understand the smoking rule) but not the 'benefits' one. Once the housing benefit is set up, the cheque comes regularly to the landlord. Payment is assured; usually by bank transfer either weekly or monthly. Of course, problems CAN occur...such as the benefit being cut off for some reason, or short-term 'hitches' such as a change of benefit from -say Invalidity, to working tax credits....etc. But it usually gets sorted out and back-pay given.
However, on average, it usually works out as payment by clockwork.
In my opinion, those possible negativities are equal to other possible delays in payment which could happen with even a working tenant.
Many people who are on the cusp of being homeless, or who have just managed to scratch their way up from being homeless, are receiving benefits of one kind or another, and probably qualify for housing benefit.
But if landlords won't accept that -then what?
I honestly think we could do with a dose of empathy from property owners. Of course, they don't want their property trashed, or have to wait months for rent payments. But if they could just give a little.....? Strict rules on the terms of the contract, and a little less laziness on the part of the landlords (i.e. being willing to make regular inspections etc) plus a willingness to have a little patience with the housing officers -would all help. The housing officers are not monsters.
