WHY IS YOUR RENT CHANGING IN 2025?
Tenants across the country will see an increase in their rent levels from April 2025, following guidelines set by the Social Housing Regulator. We understand that any increase in rent can be a concern, so we want to explain why this is happening and what it means for you.
WHY IS THE RENT INCREASING?
Each year, the government allows social housing rents to be adjusted in line with inflation. The Social Housing Regulator sets the guidelines for these adjustments to ensure that housing associations can continue to provide safe, well-maintained homes and essential services to tenants. The increase for 2025 is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus an additional percentage as set by government policy.
THE PRIMARY REASONS FOR THESE RENT INCREASES INCLUDE:
Covering Rising Costs – The cost of maintaining and improving homes has risen due to inflation, higher energy costs, and increased prices for building materials and repairs.
Investing in Your Homes – Housing associations use rent income to maintain properties, carry out repairs, and make improvements such as energy efficiency upgrades, better security, and modernized facilities.
Supporting Services – Beyond housing, rent payments help fund tenant support services, community programs, and initiatives aimed at improving well-being and quality of life. Members should support the Board of Management, who have a difficult job to meet their responsibilities of ensuring fair and equitable treatment to all members. I appeal to all Members to work with the Board and support their decisions.
How is the Increase Calculated? The Social Housing Regulator follows a formula based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) + 1%. For example, if CPI is measured at 4% in September 2024, rent could increase by up to 5% from April 2025. This ensures that housing providers can manage rising costs while keeping rents at an affordable level compared to private housing.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?
- If you receive Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, your payments may adjust automatically to help cover the rent increase.
- If you pay rent independently, you will receive a letter with details of your new rent and information on avail- able support if you need assistance.
- If you are concerned about affordability, our tenant support team is available to discuss financial advice, budgeting support, or alternative options.
We are committed to keeping rent levels fair and ensuring that every pound you pay goes back into improving homes and services. If you have any questions, please contact our customer service team or visit our website for more information.
Thank you for being a valued tenant and for working with us to build stronger communities.
UNDERSTANDING AWAB’S LAW: TACKLING MOULD IN YOUR HOME
Following the tragic case of Awab Ishak, the government has introduced Awab’s Law, reinforcing the responsibility of housing providers to tackle damp and mould in social housing. As part of this, we are taking proactive steps to ensure all homes remain safe, healthy, and free from hazardous conditions.
WHAT IS AWAB’S LAW?
Awab’s Law mandates that social housing landlords must respond swiftly to reports of damp and mould and take action to prevent it from becoming a health hazard. The law ensures stronger protections for tenants, meaning that reports of mould and damp must be dealt with urgently to avoid serious risks to health and well-being.
WHY IS MOULD A SERIOUS ISSUE?
Mould and damp can lead to severe health issues, especially for young children, elderly tenants, and those with respira- tory conditions such as asthma. Left untreated, mould can spread quickly, damaging property and creating an unsafe living environment.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Every tenant has a vital role in preventing and reporting mould issues. Here’s how you can help:
VENTILATE YOUR HOME – Open windows regularly to reduce condensation and improve airflow.
USE EXTRACTOR FANS – Ensure fans in kitchens and bathrooms are switched on during and after cooking or showering.
WIPE AWAY MOISTURE – Regularly clean off any condensation that builds up on windows or cold surfaces.
AVOID BLOCKING AIR VENTS – Keep air vents clear to ensure proper ventilation.
REPORT ANY SIGNS OF MOULD IMMEDIATELY – If you notice damp or mould, contact our office straight away so we can address it before it worsens.
ANNUAL INSPECTIONS
To ensure tenants are taking the necessary precautions, our Maintenance Officer will be conducting annual inspections of all properties. These inspections will help identify any early signs of damp or mould and ensure that preventative measures are in place.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU REPORT MOULD ?
Once you report a mould issue, our maintenance team will assess the situation and take the necessary action to resolve it. This may include:
- Cleaning and treating affected areas
- Improving ventilation solutions
- Carrying out repairs if leaks or structural issues are identified
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
We understand that mould can sometimes be difficult to control, but by working together, we can keep your home safe and healthy. If you have any concerns or need support with ventilation or heating, please contact our team as soon as possible. Taking action early can prevent serious health risks and property damage. Thank you for doing your part in keeping our homes safe !
BOARD of MANAGEMENT