Help with renting a property now I’m a single mum

[Newmum201888888]

I have been split from my babies father for over a month and need to move out ASAP. I have an interview for universal credit next Tuesday but I don’t fully understand how it works. I need help getting a property so would I need to have a property already in place to start receiving payments towards the rent? What if I have bad credit will I get help actually renting somewhere or will I struggle to get somewhere

In order to receive payment towards rent (known as the "housing element" part of UC) you would need to have a current tenancy agreement and proof of address. Have you contacted Shelter at all? That would be a good place to start

I wouldn’t need to go to a shelter, I have family whose couches I could sleep on (isn’t ideal for a baby) before I took that route. Also the babies dad isn’t that evil to let that happen

Shelter is an organisation that helps with housing issues.

You'll need to have a deposit and rent in advance. If you have poor credit you'll probably need a guarantor.

You will need to have a tenancy agreement as proof of your housing costs. I was in your situation and as it was housing benefit back then I had to copies of my tenancy agreement to the council.

You will need a deposit and month's rent in advance if you plan to private rent. I lived with my parents for 3 months while I saved this up from my tax credits and income support.

Word of warning - if you are unemployed you will really struggle to find a private rent as many landlords won't accept UC.