Missed rent payments are called 'arrears'.
Rent arrears are 'priority debts'.
- "Priorities" are your most important payments
- They can impact your home and health
- For example, you can be evicted for not paying your rent
Try to offer a payment plan as soon as you can.
Four Useful Renting Tips
Check out these four essential steps if you are struggling with renting:
- Know your rights. Understand your rights inside out. Our friends at Shelter also have great information on this
- Talk it out. Don't keep it under wraps. Open up to your landlord about what is going on
- Make a repayment plan. Look at the numbers and create a doable payment plan
- Let's tackle this together. Get in touch if you need debt advice
Have arrears from a previous home?
It may be hard to rent a new property if you have arrears on an old one.
- A rent guarantor may make it easier
- They are responsible for debts you cannot pay
There is also a chance landlords could take court action against you.
Struggling to pay rent could be a sign you need debt help
We can help.
Get free and confidential debt advice online now.
We will:
- Recommend the best way to deal with debts
- Tell you about other organisations who can help
Can I stop myself being evicted?
Get specialist help if you are worried about being evicted.
Specialist help contact details
Housing advice can be complex, so we recommend contacting an advice agency that specialises in this subject.
- In England or Scotland
- In Wales
- In Northern Ireland
Contact your local authority if eviction would make you homeless.
You may also be eligible for Breathing Space.
For up to 60 days your creditors:
- Cannot add interest or fees
- Cannot take court action
You cannot be evicted for rent arrears during this time.
Your landlord could still evict you for:
- Anti-social behaviour
- If they need to live in the property themselves
Your landlord can evict you when Breathing Space ends.
Need help with rent arrears?