Housing benefit help for landlords

Residential landlords in the borough can find out about forthcoming changes affecting housing benefit during a free event in Heywood on 29 November organised by Rochdale Borough Council.

From April next year, all new housing benefit claims will be paid directly to the tenant in a scheme known as 'Local Housing Allowance'. This enables the tenant to choose where they wish to live, and pay the landlord directly, empowering tenants to choose a property and take financial control. Many landlords are concerned, so the session is an opportunity to ask questions and hear about how the scheme will be introduced locally said Scheme co-ordinator Ross Giles: "Over £10 million is paid out in Housing Benefit each year in the borough; these changes will have a huge impact on a number of landlords and could mean an even greater effect on residents if landlords are against the idea. We hope this event will enable landlords to learn more and have their questions answered, with the aim of minimising the effects next year."

Speakers will include representatives from the councils rent service and housing benefits team.

The evening is one of a series of training sessions run throughout the year by the council as part of their Landlord Accreditation Scheme, aimed at improving property conditions and management standards in the private rented sector. 

The event is at the Birch Hotel, Heywood on Thursday 29 November, 6.30 pm - 8.00 pm.  A hot buffet and refreshments will be served.  Pre - booking is not essential.  For more details or to reserve a place:

Email: landlord.accreditation@rochdale.gov.uk

Telephone 01706 926623