A leading benefits expert has warned the Government that a court's recent decision to allow tenants to challenge landlord-requested rental arrears deductions from their Universal Credit payments will see more landlords shun tenants in receipt of benefits.

Sherrelle Collman (main image), MD of Caridon Landlords Solutions, says that while it is right that deductions should not be applied without tenant knowledge or determined solely by an automated system, this change risks making it even harder for landlords to support tenants receiving benefits.

“Without a clear, well-resourced alternative, the decision may further deter landlords from renting to those on Universal Credit, ultimately reducing housing options for some of the most vulnerable people,” she says.

“Historically, the system allowed landlords to request deductions of up to 20% from a tenant's monthly UC payments to cover rent arrears, often without consulting the tenant.

“This approach, though flawed in its lack of tenant involvement, provided landlords with a measure of assurance regarding rent collection.

“The removal of this, without a well-structured alternative, it likely to further deter landlords from renting to individuals receiving Universal Credit.

“The apprehension stems from the increased financial risk landlords might face. Without a reliable method to recover rent arrears, landlords could become more reluctant to offer tenancies to benefit recipients, fearing potential non-payment. This will only further exacerbate the housing challenges faced by those on UC, limiting their access to affordable housing options.

“If the government intends to replace the automated system with a process that evaluates deductions on a case-by-case basis, it's imperative that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is adequately resourced to handle these assessments efficiently.

“Landlords must retain a viable avenue to reclaim rent arrears when they occur.

Collman also says that delays or administrative hurdles in processing these claims could further strain landlord-tenant relationships making the search for properties in the private rental market even more challenging for benefit claimants.

“While I agree that tenant consent and involvement are paramount in decisions affecting their benefits, it's crucial to balance this with a system that provide landlords with confidence in rent collection.

“A collaborative approach, supported by a well-resourced DWP, is essential to ensure that the housing needs of Universal Credit recipients are met without placing undue burdens on landlords,” she adds.