Why are we proposing to increase rents?

We do this by looking at the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and adding 1%. The CPI measures the change in prices for everyday goods and services, like groceries, fuel, and clothing.

The decision around any potential increase, which could be up to 7.7%, will be taken by Cabinet later this month. We will write to you to let you know the outcome and what any increase may mean for your household and what your new weekly rent may be. If you are worried about affording the increased amount, please email or call us on 023 8083 3388.

If you receive Universal Credit (UC) and Housing Benefit payments, any increase in rent will be covered, but you will need to let UC know of any new amount by selecting ‘report a change’ on your online UC account.

Please note: If you don’t currently receive any financial help it's worth checking online to make sure you’re receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to.

The proposed rent increase will generate money that is essential to ensuring we can continue to maintain and improve your homes and neighbourhoods, and deliver the Housing Service.

There is no proposal to increase service charges at this time.

Proposed increase to heating charges

We pay for the energy and then charge the tenants and leaseholders who live in flats that are connected to the Landlord Controlled Heating system. As energy prices rose so sharply last year, the cost of running the service wasn’t met and we have been left with a shortfall of £3.6 million. As a result, we are consulting on raising the heating cost. The proposal is to introduce small, controlled increases over the next five years. Hopefully this will help to minimise financial impact on you and take into account any future changes in energy costs.

The proposed increase for the Landlord Controlled Heating this April will be 6.5% and from next year and beyond the increase is expected to be 5%.

For more information about increased heating charges and rent/service charges please contact your Local Housing Office.