Rent income and arrears policy

We will collect rent or a housing charge and provide a holistic service to those facing difficulty in paying. We will use preventative measures and act early, giving advice and support to our tenants to help them keep their homes. We will, however, not tolerate the wilful non- payment and will use all legal remedies to recover the debt. As a last resort we will repossess.

We will:

• collect all rent/housings charge due; reduce the level of arrears and former account arrears
• protect and support vulnerable people
• provide an excellent service, be fair and equitable
• listen to our tenants
• engage and create healthy, vibrant communities
• be proactive and use measures which prevent and minimise arrears
• work with our partners to provide advice and assistance to tenants and former tenants to maximise their incomes and sustain their tenancies or future housing requirements
• take prompt and appropriate action to recover arrears and other debts
• be committed to using legal possession action, but only as a last resort and when all alternative measures have been exhausted
• stay aware of developments in arrears prevention and recovery and will develop new and effective initiatives.