As we approach April 2025, we want to inform you about upcoming changes to your rent and share some important information.
Upcoming rent adjustment from April 2025
From April 2025, we have calculated an adjustment based on the government’s formula of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus 1%, with CPI standing at 1.7% in September 2024. This means that we will be implementing a rent increase of 2.7% for our social and affordable rented homes. This is the standard methodology used by housing associations.
For our shared ownership residents, please note that your rent increase will depend on the specific terms of your lease.
Service charges are calculated based on the cost of the services we provide.
We understand that any increase in living costs can be challenging, especially during these times. Please know that this decision wasn’t made lightly. As costs for maintaining and improving our properties continue to rise, this adjustment allows us to keep investing in your homes and our communities.
What this means for you
By the end of February, you’ll receive a detailed letter outlining your new rent and any applicable service charges from April onwards. This letter will clearly explain how we’ve calculated your new rent. If you pay service charges, it will also breakdown associated costs including cleaning and maintenance for communal areas.
We're here to help
We know that many of our residents may be feeling the pinch of rising living costs, and we want you to know that we’re here to support you. If you’re worried about these changes or are already struggling with your current rent, please reach out to us. We have a dedicated team ready to assist you fairly and transparently with:
Welfare and safeguarding advice:
Our welfare and safeguarding officer can provide additional support to those who need it the most.
Benefits check:
We can help you review your welfare or housing benefit entitlements and to ensure you’re receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to.
Rent arrears payment plans:
If you’re having difficulty, we can work with you to create a manageable payment plan or referral to other support agencies to prevent arrears escalation.
You can find more information online on our benefits advice and welfare services page.
Local support services
Several local organisations where we operate in may have services running to provide you with additional support:
Food banks:
Most of these community run food banks require food vouchers which we or another referral agency (e.g. doctor, social worker etc.) can help with. More information of the community run programmes from the following borough councils can be found here: Hackney , Tower Hamlets, Redbridge, Southwark, Barnet, Haringey, Camden, Castle Point, Hertsmere
Citizens Advice Service:
They offer free and practical advice on a range of issues including cost of living and debt and money management advice.
Find a community group:
Local Giving help local charities and community groups and you can find one of their grassroot partners through their site.