Paying rent
It is essential that you pay your rent every Monday. By signing your tenancy agreement, you agree to pay the rent in advance, on or before each Monday.
If you fall behind on your rent payments, we will send you a written notice asking you to settle the outstanding amount. Failure to pay the owed rent could lead to court action, and you may even face eviction from your home.
When you sign your tenancy agreement, you will automatically receive a housing rent and charges card. This card should be used to pay the rental charges you are responsible for.
If you need to discuss your accommodation charges or have any concerns about making payments, please contact the Income Collection Team directly for any queries regarding rent and payments.
Ways to pay rent
Housing rent and charges card
When you sign a tenancy agreement with us, you will automatically receive a housing rent and charges card. This is an easy and safe way for you to pay your rent, or a carer, relative, or friend on your behalf, to pay rent.
You can use this card to make payments at any outlet displaying the PayPoint logo or at any Post Office branch. Click either of the branches below to find your nearest store.
- Shops with PayPoint or PayZone machines
- Post Office
- Or call us on 020 8489 3449
If you have any further questions, or if your card is lost, damaged or stolen, please contact the Income Management Team on 020 8489 5611. You can also find alternative ways to pay your rent. Please check Ways to pay your rent.
What happens if I do not pay rent or service charges?
Ignoring rent arrears can lead to serious consequences, including court action and possible eviction from your home. You may be eligible for benefits that can provide financial assistance and prevent such situations. Please visit our financial help page for a range of support options and resources.
Impact on Applying for Permanent Housing
If you fall behind on rent or service charges, you may be suspended from applying for permanent housing. Even if you are initially successful in securing a property, the offer can be withdrawn if you have arrears and fail to adhere to a repayment agreement.
Private sector options
If you are in arrears, we will not be able to nominate you to our private landlords for a choice of private sector properties.
Effect on getting credit
If we obtain a County Court Judgement (CCJ) against you due to arrears, clearing the debt afterward may still make it difficult for you to obtain loans from banks and building societies.
Eviction
Failure to pay your rent could result in eviction from your home. Each year, tenants are evicted from temporary accommodation due to unpaid rent and service charges. If you are evicted for arrears, we are not obligated to re-house you, meaning you will need to find your own accommodation. You can find out more about the eviction process on our website.
