Rent can sometimes include items for which you cannot claim Housing Benefit for

The Housing Benefit scheme will not cover items such as:

• Water charges
• Heating
• Lighting
• Fuel for cooking
• Laundry
• Cleaning
• Gardening

However if the service charge is for a communal service this may be covered by Housing Benefit.

You will be responsible for paying your landlord for any items which are included in your rent, as the balance of your rent will not be covered by any Housing Benefit award.

Some rents have to be restricted as they are too expensive, or too large for your needs.  Rent decisions are set by an Independent Rent Officer Service.

If you are under 25 with no partner or dependants we will work out  your Housing Benefit using a set rent amount known as "single room rent".