No idea if this is the right place so will repost elsewhere in case that's better! We're acting as landlords of my grandmother's old house (she's in care and the rent goes towards her fees). All decisions made by us.
The tenants have just moved out. We're advertising for new ones, without much success. We'd advertised for no benefits, but someone has phoned who says she gets or will get housing benefit - currently living with parents. I need reassurance - or not - that this would be ok.
My concerns are:
It's a 4 bedroomed house. She's a single unemployed mother with three small children. Would housing benefit pay enough? I know I think "bedroom tax" doesn't apply as not social housing BUT does a similar calculation go to how much HB you are entitled to?
She says they pay in arrears. She seems to think she could get us the deposit and month's rent in advance that we want. Is arrears correct? No way is anyone moving in without deposit and rent.
She says HB can be paid to landlord direct. I've looked and can't see this on internet, is it true? All seems to suggest goes to tenant.
Finally - I seem to recall stories about how if you're a landlord whose tenant is on HB and then found not to be entitled to it, the historic monies paid can be reclaimed from you the landlord and since tenant unlikely to have assets to repay you if you sue them, you're stuffed. Is this true? Does it apply if money goes to tenant who pays you, or only if paid directly?
Any landlord words of wisdom much appreciated. I know benefits doesn't equal bad tenant, but we need to be sure we're using this asset as safely as possible.
Thanks v much (sorry it's so long)