Support for tenants highlighted as rent rises for 2022-23

Published: 16/03/2022

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Ashford Borough Council is to increase all social and affordable general needs and independent living housing rents by an average of 4.1% from April after councillors approved the budget for the 2022-23 financial year.

In line with rent setting formula set by Government, the new rent standard requires the council to increase rents by CPI + 1%. CPI at September 2021 was 3.1% and therefore the weekly rent increase will be, on average 4.1%.

For 2022/23 this means that the average weekly rent, for social housing, will be £95.16 (up from £91.39 for 2021/22). For tenants receiving Housing Benefit the increase will not have any cash impact as new rent levels are reviewed to ensure that they remain with the Local Housing Allowance rates.

This rise will add pressure to household budgets where people are not in receipt of full benefit, however the council will continue to apply for Government grants to help support those where necessary, although some tenants could be affected by other aspects of national welfare reforms.

The rent increase also applies to those tenants in affordable rent properties, although it should be noted that affordable rents are re-based to 80% of market rent each time a new tenancy agreement is made (i.e. upon vacancy) and will be increased in line with the government formula each year. The average rent for 2022/23 will be £145.35 (up from £139.66 in 2021/22).

If a tenant is currently in receipt of Housing Benefit the entitlement will be amended automatically on 4 April 2022.

In receipt of Universal Credit? Inform DWP now

However for anyone who is in receipt of Universal Credit it is VITAL that you inform the Department for Works and Pension (DWP) either via your UC Portal or by calling 0800 328 5644. To ensure you receive the correct housing element please inform the department by the 11 April 2022.

Here to help

Have you been affected directly by covid? Were you placed on furlough or did you lose employment as a result of the pandemic? Has this led to arrears on your rent account? If so contact our income and arrears lead specialist via email danny.regan@ashford.gov.uk to see if you are entitled to assistance (this resource is time and financially limited so make contact asap).

If you are struggling financially this spring Kent County Council operate the Kent Support and Assistance Service, this is year round support for essential items, again there is criteria and an application process, visit their website to see if you are eligible for assistance.

Paying your rent

Tenants are reminded you can pay your rent at any Post Office, PayPoint or PayZone outlet in conjunction with your Rent Payment Card or, monthly by Direct Debit or Standing Order.