Name changed for this post.
Bit of a backstory, I was homeless in 2020 whilst pregnant and instead of staying in temporary accommodation long term, the council helped house me in a private property. They paid the deposit and in return, the LL was happy to accept someone who was on UC. I moved into the property in 2021.
Fast forward to now and due to issues with the LL and a persistent rodent problem, we have to move house soon. I now have 2 children (1&2 year old) and they both have a disability/additional needs. Despite being a carer, I just about manage to work 2 days a week and receive UC too. We receive an additional bedroom allowance because of DS’ disability which means that the LHA is covered by UC. I don’t need to top it up at all.
It is practically impossible to find a suitable property that will accept someone on UC. I have a strong reference from the current EA which highlights the fact that I’ve never been late with a rent payment and have always paid the full amount. I’ve never been in arrears. I have a bloody guarantor and that’s still not enough.
My monthly wage is about £700.
UC is around £3100.
DLA is just under £600.
Child Benefit is £160.
Their dad gives me £400 a month too.
That’s £4960 a month.
I can understand that LL’s don’t want to rely on DLA/CB/Maintenance but I don’t understand what else I need to do to show that I can pay the rent. UC will cover the whole rent and it’s still an issue.
Does anyone have any advice on what I can do/say to show that I’m a reliable tenant. Just because I’m on UC does not mean that I’m going to be an awful tenant that messes up their house. Unfortunately, I’m not in a position to provide 6 months rent upfront as that would be about £10k. I’d really appreciate hearing from other single mums/parents that have rented whilst receiving UC. Thanks