Why am I getting a visit about my housing benefit?
I live in a flat on my own and have been claiming housing benefit for a few months. They sent me a letter saying someone from the housing is coming round to pay a visit. Why do they do this? Does this mean I am about to lose my housing? Also, what happens when they come round? Do they go in every room or is it just a chat?
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January 26th, 2010 at 9:56 pm
Most government housing units do an inspection at least once a year. Checking to be sure everything is safe and your apartment isn’t a fire hazard.
That would be my guess for their visit.
January 29th, 2010 at 9:58 pm
It sounds like an assessment. Depending on where in the UK you live, the council will assess an amount that you are entitled to based on several factors.
1. The number of people living in the accommodation
2. The number of rooms necessary
3. The location of the property
4. The average rate of property in the area.
They periodically assess people (especially new claims) to determine the amount that they will pay towards your housing.
They will look in each room.
You are generally entitled to one bedroom as an adult and a separate bedroom for each child except for children under a certain age (I think that it is 9) which are expected to share a bedroom. You also are entitled to one common room per three persons.
If they asses that you are entitled to £500 per month based on the factors above and your rent is £500 or under, you will be covered. If it is a little over £500 you will have to pay the difference. If it is a lot over £500 they will likely stop the benefit until you move into a property that falls within their financial parameters.
They will also look for proof of undocumented people living in the flat. If you are claiming that you are single and you have room mates or a partner. You will likely be removed from housing benefit.
However if you are being honest, it sounds like a very common case of property rate assessment and I wouldn’t worry about it.