What help is available?
In recent weeks, the Coronavirus has made a drastic impact on the UK leaving most of the population vulnerable, not necessarily for their health but financially. For both renters and landlords, the next few months are going to be difficult and the Government and major businesses have committed to help where they can.
This guide provides a list of all the relevant support that can help you, whether it’s income support to #KeepTheRentFlowing, help with household and every day bills, regular updates to your tenancy rights or how to obtain holidays on your mortgage. See below for more information: –
Income Support, SSP and Self Employed
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is now available from day one from staying home from work and is available if either you have symptoms of COVID-19 or you are isolating due to a family member having symptoms.
Universal Credit payments have been raised and the income floor has been removed making more people eligible.
Employment and Support Allowance for those who are ill, have a health condition or disability that prevents them from working longer term.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme allows companies to retain their employees and pay them up-to 80% of their monthly salary.
Self Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS) comprising a taxable grant of up to 80% of average profit for self-employed workers.
Mortgages, loans and household bills
Mortgage Lenders will provide three-month mortgage payment holiday including Buy to let mortgages.
council tax relief for those most vulnerable
Loans and Credit Card payment holidays. A lot of banks have committed to to load and repayment holidays.
The majority of energy and water companies have rolled out schemes to help during the outbreak, including posting free top-up cards and organising payment breaks.
Broadband suppliers have scrapped all data caps and mobile phone companies have introduced free data and calls to some of their plans.
Renters support
Change to eviction rules — Landlords are unable to start eviction proceedings for at least 3 months.
Increase in Housing Benefit and Local Housing Allowance raised to 30% of market rents.
Landlords remain legally obligated to ensure properties meet the required standard – urgent, essential health and safety repairs should be made.