Struggling to pay your rent or mortgage

Avoid becoming homeless

You could become homeless if you do not pay your rent or mortgage.

If you become homeless, you will have less choice and control over your housing. For example, you might have to move out of London to a place where rents are more affordable.

To avoid becoming homeless, you can get advice and money to help you pay your housing costs and bills.

Below are links to advice and ways to pay overdue rent or mortgage payments.

Are you claiming welfare benefits?

Citizens Advice has information on the different kinds of benefits you can claim.

You can also check you are claiming all the benefits you can. Start by using a benefits calculator.

Get debt advice and help to pay your rent and bills

Advice for mortgage payers

Lenders must treat you fairly. If you cannot pay your mortgage, contact your lender as soon as possible.

Ask them if you can:

Leasehold properties

If your property is leasehold, you must also pay ground rent and sometimes a service charge.

If you do not pay these charges, as well as your mortgage, you could lose your home.

Further advice for mortgage payers

Council news directly to you

The latest news in your inbox every week. Council news, community updates, local events and more.

Sign up Sign up