Managing Rent Arrears Policy

POLICY STATEMENT

 I. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the process for managing rental arrears.

II. Definitions

• Rent Arrears refers to rent that is more than 1 day late.

III. Coverage

This policy applies to all SCH managed properties.

IV. Principles

If a tenant is having difficulty paying rent by the due date, they should contact SCH to make suitable arrangements, preferably before their rent falls into arrears. (As a minimum, the expected repayment is equal to one day’s rebated rent per week, each fortnight). SCH is committed to working with tenants to help them maintain their tenancy.

It is a condition of the Residential Tenancy Agreement that tenants pay their rent by the due date. Consistent late payment of rent, or failure to pay rent, may result in a tenant not having access to SCH services such as a tenancy transfer or tenancy reinstatement. Tenants may also have their Residential Tenancy Agreement terminated.

SCH tenants may be referred to financial counselling services, which can be useful in establishing a budget and managing financial commitments. If a tenant wishes to access this service, they should contact their local SCH office.

Tenants also have the option of paying rent by Centrepay if they are in receipt of a government pension or benefits, or by automatic direct debit from their bank account if they earn wages.

Ex-tenants will not be eligible for a new tenancy agreement if they have an existing debt with a social housing provider, until they enter and comply with a repayment plan for a minimum of 6 months. The restriction will need to be removed by the social housing provider to whom the debt is owed. This applies for a maximum period of 12 years from the date of an order or judgement relating to the debt.

V. Responsibilities

Housing Officers are responsible for managing rental arrears.