The Maximum Rent Level
The maximum rent level
If the applicant is a Council or Hjaltland Housing Association tenant then the rent can be paid in full by Housing Benefit. However, if the applicant is a private tenant and the rent charged is considered by the Rent Service to be too high then the Housing Benefit paid out will be less than the rent charged.
It is particularly important therefore that those who are thinking of renting a private property should contact the Council's Housing Benefit staff to find out what level of rent is likely to be met by Housing Benefit. Staff can either make an informal calculation on the basis of their indicative rent levels for similar properties or they can give a precise 'pre-tenancy determination'. However, the determination, which usually takes 3 days to reach, can only be given where the landlord has given written consent. Both the informal and formal advice given by Council staff will give the Housing Benefit applicant a clear idea of whether he or she will be able to afford the rent asked, after any contribution from Housing Benefit has been allowed for.
Restrictions on Housing Benefit for single, under 25 years olds
It is important to note the restrictions have been imposed by Government on the amount of Housing Benefit which can be given to single persons under 25 years old renting privately.
Young single persons on low incomes are therefore advised to speak to Housing Benefit staff before accepting any offer of rented accommodation in Shetland.
Further information
Detailed information and advice on all the assessment procedures for Housing Benefit will be willingly given by the Council's trained staff at:
Shetland Islands Council Telephone: 01595 744682 |
Right to appeal
Any Housing Benefit applicant has a right to ask the Council to review their decision, if the applicant is not satisfied with it. Any such request must be made within one month of the date of determination. The Shetland Citizens Advice Bureau is also happy to help with any appeal.
Other Services
Shetland Islands Citizens Advice Bureau (SICAB) can also make an informal calculation of the level of housing benefit that may be available. They also offer to undertake a review with the individual of the whole benefit system in order to try to increase the income available to that person. Scottish Power carries out free 'Benefits Health Checks'. This is a free, quick and easy way to find out if you are getting all the benefits you are entitled to. Call Scottish Power free on 0800 072 9009.
Housing Options Guide Contents