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A couple we know have asked to rent my partner's house, but they are only likely to afford it with housing benefit, and we don't want to get into a difficult position with them if situations change.
The couple are married with one kid (about 3) and one on the way. Neither of them work (though the husband is looking for work). Currently they are in a top-floor council flat - no lift.
The house is a nice 3-bed in Berkshire, and I believe the previous tenant (who claimed as a single mum with 2 kids to start with and then 3 kids later) had all the rent paid (£840 pcm).
Obvious differences with the previous tenant are
1. Only 1 kid (at the moment) - house possibly too big.
2. Husband present.
3. If he gets a job will they lose more benefits than they gain - they are not the greatest budgeters in the world!
Any comments or thoughts welcome. My gut feeling is to avoid the situation, but my partner feels obliged to find out.
I have rented for many years and im no expert but they will have a large amount deducted from their eligable rent as they will be underoccupying the property. They only need a 2 bedroomed home and that is all the HB will pay for.
I think your gut feeling is right but in order for the prospective tenants to see you being fair, they can apply to the council for a pre tenancy rent determination and the rent officer will tell them before they move in what they would be entitled to.
Thanks for the info. I think the potential tenant is coming around to the realisation that they will be unable to afford it, but at least we can point them in the right direction should they want to consider it.
How much housing benefit do you get
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