Christmas rent payment holiday for council tenants
Birmingham City Council tenants are in line to enjoy a two weeks rent holiday over the Christmas period, provided they have an up to date rent account.
Their rent payment holiday will take place on Monday December 19 and Monday December 26. Tenants in arrears are being asked to use the non-payment weeks to catch up. This is the fourth year this has taken place.
The City Council collects its rents over a 48 week period to accommodate this added bonus for good payers.
Cllr John Lines, Birmingham City Council's Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “We know that the current economic climate means it's more difficult for many of our tenants, to keep their account in credit. This is therefore a breathing space for them at an expensive time of year.
“If people are finding it difficult to make rent payments they should contact the rent service for support and advice. Our job is to help people understand the importance of paying regularly, so their home is not at risk of Court repossession action that ends up costing the Council and the tenants more in the long run.”
Even if you don’t pay your rent by direct debit or standing order, you can still pay over the Christmas period. The council has a 24 hour automated payment line, or alternatively people can pay online at www.birmingham.gov.uk or during office hours by calling the Rent Service on 0121 675 2006. Tenants can also use their Rent payment card at any Payzone or Paypoint outlet throughout the city.
If needed the Council's rent team can give details of independent debt advisers, particularly if customers have multiple debt problems.
Ends
For media enquiries only contact Karen Blanchette on 0121 303 6969. For any other city council enquires call 0121 303 1111.
