Section 21 - council housing

[Laura2156]

Our landlord issued us with a section 21 in December as she was easing our rent and we stated we couldn’t afford it.

she then said that she isn’t going to go to court to evict us to “help us get a council house” and we have to pay it. She’s been really awful about everything and we have texts etc from her to prove this.

we obviously applied to the council and we have been put in band b. However we have a relief duty and it states when the 56 days are up this will end.

does anyone know what will happen after the 56 days of the landlord doesn’t take us to court, whether they will put us in a lower band?

we struggle as it is with rent and bills and with this increase it’s just not affordable. I work and on paper it looks like we have a “good” income but after rent, bills etc we’re left with barely anything for the month. The house is also in disrepair and the landlord just does the bare minimum and bodge’s it. She recently left us with no boiler for over a month with no heating and three young children.

We are coming 7th on a house at present but it doesn’t close until Friday and I know we won’t get it at this high number.

sorry for the rant but if anyone can help with advice or knowledge it would be much appreciated xx

If she isn't going to evict you, then just stay put.
The ball is in her court. If she doesn't want to evict you, then you stay.

Unless the landlord takes you to court to evict you, just stay in the property and keep paying rent at the normal rate. Their only option to get you out is to evict you legally. Until this goes to court, most councils will refuse to house you, as you have the right to stay where you are

Hopefully something will come up council wise.

If a council place does not come up. Then she has no choice but to take you to court. If she wants you out. Do not leave until possession order happens. Eviction can take 6-9 months or some times longer.

The 56 day relief duty is look into your situation. Thry will then decide if they owe you a full duty.

Make sure you carry in paying your rent though. Do you get any help with your rent?

Well, she's either going to have to take you to court to evict you or accept the lower rent. Just sit tight, carry on paying the same rent you always have.

thank you.

Ive already paid the higher rent this month as she issued a section 13 and I was under the impression if we got into arrears it would make our situation worse with the council

You need to speak to Shelter.

The rental market is awful at present, wish you luck

I'm with everyone else. You have in writing you can't afford the rent increase. Inform her, also in writing that you will be paying rent each month at the current (not increased) rate. Balls in her court. She can accept it or she can start eviction proceedings. Do NOT move until you are literally forced too. It will take her months to get this sorted. In the meantime keep in with the council, fighting to get on the highest band you can. Look for other rentals that meet your budget. Contact shelter and an other services that can help