Rent and service charge payments will increase from 3 April 2023.
- Residential rent will increase by 7%
- Service charges (excluding energy charges) will increase by 11.1% (CPI+1%)
- Non-residential charges will increase by 11.1% (CPI+1%)
- The communal electricity charge will increase by an average of 129.10%
- Communal heating charge takes into account the boiler's consumption and the rise in cost of energy
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a figure used to measure inflation. The government normally allows registered providers to increase rents by CPI plus 1%. However, this year the government has introduced a 7% cap on social housing rent increases. You can find more information about the cap on social housing rent increases, on the government website.
If you pay by standing order or get universal credit, you should update your payments to avoid underpaying and falling into arrears.
Energy costs increased significantly in 2022. Residents were protected from this last year because the council buys energy in advance - there was no need to increase energy charges from April 2022. Unfortunately, energy costs are still high and so are the costs of buying it in advance for 2023. As a result, the energy charge to residents with communal heating has increased.
We understand that you may be concerned about being able to pay your rent or other charges. If you are experiencing financial difficulties or struggling to make other payments, please contact our friendly income team on 020 7364 5015 (option 3). We can help.