Here’s what you need to know.
Bron Afon charge rent every week on a Monday and in this year, there will be 53 weeks. Here is some guidance to help you understand what this means for you.
Why is there a change this year?
There are 52 weeks in a normal year, which means we issue 52 weekly charges for rent. Every five to six years, there are 53 Mondays in a year instead. 2023/2024 is one of these years. This means 53 weeks rent are charged rather than the usual 52.
Will I still have the 2 rent free weeks?
You will still get your 2 rent free weeks in August and December, if you are not in rent arrears, but this year you will have one more weekly rent charge than normal.
How will I calculate my monthly payments?
To calculate how much rent you should be paying, you need to multiply your weekly rent amount by 51 and then divide by 12.
For example, if your rent is £90 per week, you would use the following calculation.
£90 * 51 divided by 12 = £382.50
What if I claim Universal credit?
If you get Universal Credit, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) calculate your monthly rent by multiplying your weekly rent by 50 and then divide it by 12.
You will need to make up the difference between the monthly amount owed and the amount the DWP pays you.
For example, if your rent is £90 per week, your monthly payment will be £382.50 but the DWP will only pay you £375. You will be required to make up the difference.
What if my rent is paid directly by Universal credit?
Universal credit will only pay for 50 weeks so you will need to pay the difference between what your monthly rent is and what the DWP pay Bron Afon
For example, if your rent is £90 per week, your monthly payment will be £382.50. The DWP will only pay you £375, and you will be required to make up the difference.
Will I still have the 2 rent free weeks?
You will still get your 2 rent free weeks in August and December, if you are not in rent arrears, but this year you will have one more weekly rent charge than normal.
What if I pay monthly by direct debit?
If you pay by Direct Debit you don’t need to do anything, we will do this calculation for you and automatically adjust your payments. If you pay by any other method, you will need to adjust your payments.
What If I pay weekly?
There is no change, you will pay your new weekly rent from April 1st in advance every Monday.
What if I claim housing benefit?
If you get housing benefit you don’t need to do anything as this will be covered.