January 23, 2009
TENANTS who get behind with their rent can apply for a one-off loan to stop them being evicted.
Basildon Council’s housing advisors have said they will be handing out money under a scheme to help certain people renting from private landlords stay in their homes.
It’s unclear who will be eligible for the loans, which are funded by central Government. The council have said only “genuine” tenants caught up in “unfortunate circumstances” which mean they could be evicted, will be eligible for the money.
Tony Ball, councillor responsible for housing, said: “Often a one-off payment gives time to negotiate a settlement to a dispute and buys a little time for a basically good tenant to sort himself out.
“This scheme will act as a lifeline to such genuine tenants and at the same time save council taxpayers from what is often an unnecessary financial burden.”
The council hopes the loan scheme will save it money as it currently costs around £2,500 when people are evicted, due to administration costs.
Basildon Council spokesman Ray Mckay, said it would be up to council housing advisors to decide who is eligible for the loans and how much they should receive.
He said: “We will make financial checks and do anything necessary to be certain we know it is a genuine case.”
He also said that in most cases the money would be paid straight to the landlord.
However, one landlord has expressed doubts about the scheme.
George Pyrkos, 54, who rents ten properties in Basildon as well as in London, said: “In some cases it could work, but if a genuine tenant has got problems paying, then the landlord isn’t going to evict them.”
But Labour councillor Lynda Gordon, said: “It’s a very difficult time for people at the moment, so this could help them.
Source:http://www.billericayweeklynews.co.uk