Paying Your Rent

Your occupation contract clearly states your monthly rent amount, the due date, and the payment method. It is crucial to pay your rent on time to avoid any issues.

How to Pay:

• Bank Transfer: This is our preferred and most common method. Your contract will include FlatHomes' bank account details. Please ensure you use your property address or unique reference number (if provided) as the payment reference so we can easily identify your payment.
• Other Methods: If you need to discuss alternative payment methods, please contact our accounts team.

When to Pay:

• Your rent is due on the date specified in your occupation contract (e.g., the 1st of each month).
• Please ensure funds clear in our account by the due date. Allow time for bank processing, especially if paying on weekends or bank holidays.

Understanding Rent Arrears

Rent arrears occur when your rent payment is late or missed. It's important to act quickly if you anticipate or experience difficulties in paying your rent.

What Happens if Rent is Late:

• Initial Contact: If your rent is not received by the due date, FlatHomes will contact you promptly. This will typically be a polite reminder via phone, email, or SMS.
• Communication is Key: If you are experiencing financial difficulties, please contact us immediately. Open communication allows us to understand your situation and discuss possible solutions.
• Late Payment Charges: Your occupation contract will outline any charges for late rent payments. These charges are typically applied if rent remains unpaid for a certain period (e.g., 14 days).
• Formal Notices: If arrears continue, FlatHomes may issue formal notices in accordance with the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2022. These notices are a necessary step in the legal process to recover unpaid rent.
• Legal Action: As a last resort, if arrears are not resolved, the landlord may be forced to take legal action to recover the outstanding rent and/or seek possession of the property. This is always avoided where possible.

Support for Financial Difficulties

If you are struggling to pay your rent, there is help available. Please reach out to us, and consider contacting these independent organisations for advice:

• Citizens Advice: Offers free, confidential advice on debt, benefits, and housing. They can help you understand your options and rights.
  Citizens Advice Wales - Rent Arrears
• Shelter Cymru: A Welsh charity providing free, independent housing advice and support.
  Shelter Cymru - Rent Arrears
• Local Council Housing Benefit/Universal Credit: If you are on a low income, you may be eligible for housing benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit to help with your rent. Contact your local council (Cardiff Council) or the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
  Cardiff Council Housing Benefit

Our Commitment to You

FlatHomes is committed to supporting our contract holders. We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, and we aim to work with you to resolve any rent payment issues fairly and efficiently.

Maintaining a good payment history is important for your future tenancies and credit standing. By communicating openly and acting promptly, you can ensure a smooth and positive renting experience with FlatHomes.