Reasons Why Landlords Shouldn’t Accept DSS Tenants
Written by The Landlord on 09 Aug 2009Before anyone gets firmly on my tits about this, let me just clarify, this is a follow on article from The Positives Of DSS Tenants. So please, no angry hippies or DSS tenants start protesting, this is just a simple flip of the coin.
But I must confess, this list is longer than the pro-DSS tenants’ article! My bad.
DSS tenants receive a lot of negative publicity; they are seen as high-risk due to the historical view of them being people with poor credit history who don’t look after their rented property. Of course, not everyone is the same, and I’m a firm believer in everyone being judged on their own merit. You’ll find good amongst the bad. However, having dealt with several DSS tenants, I can confirm that they can come with problems, and the odds are, they will. Harsh? I prefer “accurate”
1. DSS Tenants usually carry troubled circumstances
DSS tenants are receiving benefits for a reason, so they’re often individuals with unstable and/or shady backgrounds. I’m not trying to be a pompous prick about it, but that’s just how it is in reality.
That explains why they get thrown into the high-risk and troublesome category. Granted, in cases, there are genuine cases like unfortunate people that have lost their jobs, or unable to work due to disabilities.
2. Landlords no longer receive rent directly
At one time, DSS tenants were sought after by Landlords because the council would pay the rent directly to the Landlord. Unfortunately, that changed a few years ago, consequently tenants now directly receive rent. The change occurred to encourage the tenants to become more responsible with money.
Essentially, a lot of DSS tenants caused a lot of problems for Landlords, but Landlords tolerated it because rent was guaranteed. But since tenants have been responsible for their own allowance, a lot of cases have (predictably) cropped up where tenants are failing to pass on the rent, and presumably spending the money on other things. The only real security landlords once had is no longer there.
3. DSS tenants need to cover a shortfall
DSS tenants will typically need to cover a shortfall each month. For example, if the tenant’s rent is £500pcm, they may receive an allowance of £400 per month. In that case, your tenant will have to cover a shortfall. Bearing in mind, a lot of DSS tenants aren’t working, so it’s important to investigate how the tenant will cover the shortfall.
4. Difficult to get Landlord Rental Insurance
Rental insurance is always a useful policy to have in place, especially if you’re not 100% sure of your tenants credibility.
If your tenant fails to pay rent, your rental insurance company will cover the costs. However, many insurance companies won’t insure your rent if you have a DSS tenant. And if they’re willing to, they may ask for a higher premium than a private tenant.
If insurers are refusing to insure DSS tenants, or ask for a higher premuim, the statistics should speak for themselves. These insurance companies aren’t fools.
5. The Council are useless
I’ve already raged about how useless the council are when problems occur with DSS Tenants so I won’t drag on about it too much. Basically, on various occasions throughout my involvement with DSS tenants I’ve needed to contact the council in order to resolve some outstanding issues. It goes without saying that they have been less than helpful and added to my misery. You can read a more in-depth discussion on how the council are rubbish when it comes to providing Landlords with support.
6. Even Letting Agents refuse to deal with DSS tenants
A letting agents job is to find suitable tenants for their landlords’ as quickly as possible. If they don’t find tenants, they don’t get paid, it’s that simple. So it must say something about DSS tenants if more and more letting agents refuse to deal with DSS tenants.
When a letting agent prolongs filling in vacant properties by denying a certain type of tenant, alarm bells should ring. I’m sure letting agents have dealt with DSS tenants at one point, and on the back of their experiences, they’re now refusing…
7. Allowance amount can randomly change for your tenant
I’ve been in situations where my DSS tenant’s circumstances changed, which reflected on the amount of benefits they were entitled to. For example, they were initially receiving £400pcm, but were then only entitled to £350pcm. That can cause problems because now they have more of a shortfall to cover. Of course, you may never be aware of the change, and you’re not entitled to know why the chance occured because it’s none of the Landlord’s business (according to the law).
However, it can work both ways. In some instances, the tenant’s allowance could go up. But if it lowers, there may be a knock-on affect for the landlord.
Anyone else got anything to add? If so, blurt your stuff…
Previous Article
I Received An Email Of Complaint From A DSS TenantRelated Articles
276 Comments - join the conversation...
Showing 227 - 276 comments (out of 276)
Dawn2011-07-04 13:26:29
Can I first point out that I am a different Dawn to the regular contributor.
In response to the idea that landlords " get in the way" of people who wish to have children with no means to house and support them, I have to say that the council is responsible for housing those in genuine need.
I do not offer social services. Nor do I owe any of you anything. Me having what I have does not prevent you having anything that you care to work for.
Sounds like a lot of sour grapes whining after people have made wrong choices in life to me.
Before you all start flaming me saying having kids wasn't a bad choice, I would suggest that possibly the timing of your children wasn't great if you can't afford to put a roof over their heads without handouts.
In response to the idea that landlords " get in the way" of people who wish to have children with no means to house and support them, I have to say that the council is responsible for housing those in genuine need.
I do not offer social services. Nor do I owe any of you anything. Me having what I have does not prevent you having anything that you care to work for.
Sounds like a lot of sour grapes whining after people have made wrong choices in life to me.
Before you all start flaming me saying having kids wasn't a bad choice, I would suggest that possibly the timing of your children wasn't great if you can't afford to put a roof over their heads without handouts.
227
serena2011-07-07 21:39:25
Due to unfortunately being disabled i am on HB... i do however keep house very well, i can get good references to prove this
i think the whole no DSS which is extremely frustrating by the way is discrimination and should be seen as such... i think the person writing the comments against are so very pompous if im honest. and yes you are its not reality i take care of my home and my property, i have a very nice landlady who gets her rent on time straight from the bank on a standing order
we moved in as soon as broughtm, and have decorated it, and keep it very very clean, i think no one should jjudge people on their circumstances, saying everyone who recieves HB or LHA is being discriminating how would you like me to judge you on being upper class? or a male... or where your from - its the same diffrence
i think the whole no DSS which is extremely frustrating by the way is discrimination and should be seen as such... i think the person writing the comments against are so very pompous if im honest. and yes you are its not reality i take care of my home and my property, i have a very nice landlady who gets her rent on time straight from the bank on a standing order
we moved in as soon as broughtm, and have decorated it, and keep it very very clean, i think no one should jjudge people on their circumstances, saying everyone who recieves HB or LHA is being discriminating how would you like me to judge you on being upper class? or a male... or where your from - its the same diffrence
228
Gillybean2011-07-10 12:15:48
Hi,i am currently on Housing benefit,i live in a 5 bed detached house in Glasgow,i have 5 kids and i am having to move from the house because the landlord has decided to give the house to his daughter!!..I have tried on numerous occasions to get a job with the answer no because i am not reliable due to the amount of kids i have!!..If i could get work i would be working!..I have only 6 weeks left now to come up with a deposit for another house for me n my kids either that or go into homeless accomodation and wait to probably be offered the worst accomodation in Glasgow!!..I am not a junkie,i don't drink and my house is spotless!,my kids are the best and i consider myself to be a very nice person!!..To be quite honest it totally pisses me off when people look down their noses at you when you even dare to apply for house when you are on benefits!!,i mean who the hell do you think you are??..you are no better than me just because you are working!!..why would you be??..i just don't get it!!!!!!..also the deposits people ask for are a joke!!..
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sonofcy2011-07-10 19:35:11
Gillybean. You are forgetting a basic premise here, Landlords are in it to make money not to offer a public service; I quite sympathise with your position but it's no good moaning at them, it falls on deaf ears. If you want this sort of thing to stop, you - and others like your goodself - need to organise and then lobby. Only when Councilors and MP'S think that their wallet will be at risk - as it would be if they lost their seat - will they ever do anything about it. They have to fear you more than they do their party whips. Organise and get them to invest in state homes and afforable homes to prick the unsustainable housing bubble that should have burst two years ago with the banking crisis.
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Dick Turpin2011-07-10 20:54:11
sonofcy that is so true. We get what we deserve and they reap what they sow
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Thomas Paine2011-07-29 11:26:26
There seems to be an assumption that tenants in work will always pay their rent. They are just as likely to default due to various circumstances, loss of job, overly high spending, illness, whatever.
The statement that most people on benefits are unstable or shady is just about as offensive and plain wrong as it can get - sure some are, so are many not on benefits - that's what references from previous landlords are about.
Try judging the people themselves and not some label you've invented and put on them.
That sort of language, "them" ! "those people" ! "most of them are...." !
Try changing the label from DSS to, say, female, or elderly, or disabled, or ethnic and see how it sounds !
The statement that most people on benefits are unstable or shady is just about as offensive and plain wrong as it can get - sure some are, so are many not on benefits - that's what references from previous landlords are about.
Try judging the people themselves and not some label you've invented and put on them.
That sort of language, "them" ! "those people" ! "most of them are...." !
Try changing the label from DSS to, say, female, or elderly, or disabled, or ethnic and see how it sounds !
232
leiggh2011-08-05 13:56:57
what an absolute idiot you are I bet you have nothing in your life you sad little turd.
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Andy2011-08-08 17:23:47
Ive just stumbled across this ridiculous article...does anybody know of any articles which highlight the shortcomings of various landlords ie not fulfilling their obligations with respect to property maintenance and the like because almost all of these sites want to highlight the risks of taking on 'dodgy tenants', there are two parties in a tenancy agreement and yet it always seems to be the tenant that comes under the spotlight.
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sonofcy2011-08-08 18:19:49
That's because - to paraphrase Camaron - "They're all in it together" many many local newspaoers rely heavily on the advertisements from estate agents etc. for revenue. They don't want to kill the Golden Goose. Anyway, the poor are fair game these days and the estate agents have always treated tenants like scum.
235
Jay2011-08-17 06:44:29
You seem to fail to realise that a lot of working people also receive HB, if they are working p/t or on low wages for example. The amount of people claiming is bound to rise as wages go down because of the influx of undercutting cheap labour from the "glorious EU". Wages are going down and more and more people are being laid off so I am afraid landlords will either have to lower rents or get used to the fact that many more people will be forced to claim HB to keep a roof over their head.
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james2011-08-22 10:42:41
have recently moved down to norwich from york looking for work down here and trying to find a flat or even a room that will take dss. i am 27 not on drugs have spent most of my adult life working in england and europe, but after a split from my partner have come upon hard times, with a new gf now and starting to get back on my feet but seem to hit brick walls every time dss is mentioned. landords should be able to vet tennants just like an employer then mybe they will be more willing to take a chance.
237
Roz2011-09-11 15:38:17
I am currently a dss tenant (due to my partner being disabled, i am his carer) and not once have i not paid my rent, We are currently in a catch 22 position where my landlord is selling the 1 bed, first floor flat due to financial issues so hence i am looking for something on the ground floor with 2 beds as my partner needs the room to himself. I have been in contact with the council and put our name on the list to find a dss accepted property but yet no luck. we are looking to become homeless as i am currently having no luck in the private sector. i find this very distressing as i have always paid my rent on time via a direct debit and always have a shortfall every month so why would i not be accepted?? basically everyone has me by the balls so to speak. why be tarnished with the same brush as other people on dss that have frivolously spent theyre money on crap when there are people out there on dss that are
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Roz2011-09-11 15:40:40
having to be quite frugal with their money to survive but know their priorities. Stereotyping comes to mind. not to have a go because i understand there is to be a positive and negative side to everything
Roz
Roz
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Maggie Allen2011-09-16 18:25:51
No wanting to sound like a pompous twat...you are sounding VERY much like one.
Some people are on benefits because although they actually do have a job, the job is low paid and rents are high. My rent is more than I actually recieve in wages a month. The government allows this free market metality for rents...its tied on with mortage rates which are far too high any way because the bankers are criminals....If we lived in a realistic world and not the world that the bankers have made impossible for us through their greed, each person would have enough to pay rent if they work.
People on benefits you seem to think are just low-lifes....because of your total ignorance you judge them. You are ignorant, arrogant and basically you have not one iota of EQ.
Some people are on benefits because although they actually do have a job, the job is low paid and rents are high. My rent is more than I actually recieve in wages a month. The government allows this free market metality for rents...its tied on with mortage rates which are far too high any way because the bankers are criminals....If we lived in a realistic world and not the world that the bankers have made impossible for us through their greed, each person would have enough to pay rent if they work.
People on benefits you seem to think are just low-lifes....because of your total ignorance you judge them. You are ignorant, arrogant and basically you have not one iota of EQ.
240
Tyrese2011-09-18 13:52:39
This is discrimination and Landlords and Estate Agents should stop!! Give every potential tenant a chance and weigh their merits not just generalising all DSS claimants.Not all people want to be on DSS, we all have different circumstances.None of us knows the hand that will guide us to tomorrow. I for one have never claimed benefits and a recent graduate from Oxford University, was on a stable job and felt on top of the world. But I had to leave my job to look after my disabled daughter. I am now looking for a suitable accommodation but a majority of adverts have "No DSS". Such ads make me feel like garbage. Circumstances have pushed me to this corner and I have no choice but take DSS until I manage to work my way around to better my family life.
Bravo to the landlord who has decided to go a head and show his prospective tenant the house inspite of all the negative advice from other landlords. Regardless of what happens in the future, by letting the property to this woman and her children,you would have made a difference in their lives and that is a true and would be successful business!
Bravo to the landlord who has decided to go a head and show his prospective tenant the house inspite of all the negative advice from other landlords. Regardless of what happens in the future, by letting the property to this woman and her children,you would have made a difference in their lives and that is a true and would be successful business!
241
John2011-09-18 20:29:06
sorry don't agree as i am a carer and my only income for a house is dss so it is putting a lot of people in the crap as more people get older. The government wont have order of the old people homes and if they close, every one will be cares which will have dss so that means more people on the street and no one to care for the old so you'll find every one will start to die much quicker sorry just had to be said as i have been caring for 6 years and cant find anywhere in my area
242
tammy2011-09-21 13:12:41
i think this is wrong im single mum due to both parents dont get along i work full time, my wages however would not pay for rent and my little girl and all bills that come with a place, it really annoys me how people judge everyone i can even offer guarentor who has own buisness for years makes me cross as i work hard and still have no where for my daughter an i to live
243
karie2011-09-23 00:14:32
this article was obviously written by somebody who has not had the misfortune of a lot of people in life of being on benefits for various reasons.
my daughter has aspergers and dyspraxia and because of this i am on income support and carers allowance.
not all people on benefits are troublemakers, or alcoholics/junkies. i am caring for my child, and am constantly knocked back for things, even though my income is over part time work amount.it is a stigma that people should open their eyes to and realise that a lot of us are decent human beings, who are critisised unduly because of redundancy, ill health, family circumstance and other things outwith our control.
my daughter has aspergers and dyspraxia and because of this i am on income support and carers allowance.
not all people on benefits are troublemakers, or alcoholics/junkies. i am caring for my child, and am constantly knocked back for things, even though my income is over part time work amount.it is a stigma that people should open their eyes to and realise that a lot of us are decent human beings, who are critisised unduly because of redundancy, ill health, family circumstance and other things outwith our control.
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Bev Carder2011-09-23 13:24:05
I would like to correct the person who first wrote this article. The council will pay the houisng benefit directly to the landlord if there is a risk that the tenant may spend it on other things! I do think that there is a big stigma when it comes to DSS and I find letting agents especially rude and very unhelpful. I am a fully qualified nurse with children who unfortunately is now a single my I am in receipt of housing benefit. Landlords need to LOOK at the person, not judge them because they recieve benefits! This matter makes me so angry.
245
David2011-09-29 12:17:49
I must say, it sounds to me that this blanket banning of all DSS sounds a little harsh... Then again, probably easy for me to say when it's not my flat that is being rented. In the future I wouldn't be surprised if the government makes it illegal to discriminate in such ways http://www.buying-to-let.org.uk/is-buy-to-let-ethical.html
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shane sweeney2011-10-10 10:07:39
well om totally desgusted with this RANT im a DSS person renting a house in Londonderry, i am an ex soldier suffering from PTSD after fighting in iraq on 2 different tours! my rented house is kept in pristine condition with strict household rules for everyone! just because a person is on benefits they seem to be tared with the same brush, granted there are some walks of life who dont deserve the oxygen they breath, but not every person on benefits is a yobbo, as for housing benefit mine is paid directly to the landlord and my shortfall is paid on a weekly basis without fail!
247
Aggravated2011-10-12 12:14:22
I agree (to some extent) where you are coming from, and that you have allowed some leverage with your opinions (those that are unfortunate). Well, I'm one of those- I'm recently divorced and left with my five children to care for (yes from the same Dad and in wed-lock, thank you very much). I had to surrender my business to take care of my children alone (ages 5-11) two with disabilities. Now, I can't afford my mortgage... I have much equity in the house but they won't allow me to sell it and pay off my debts, telling me that "I'm making myself homeless- tough luck." Also, even if they would help me, landlords won't take me on
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Anon2011-10-14 14:35:16
"DSS tenants are receiving benefits for a reason, so they’re often individuals with unstable and/or shady backgrounds. I’m not trying to be a pompous prick about it, but that’s just how it is in reality."
Yes you are!! I've got a BA and am a professional and just lost my job through no fault of my own and I would never discriminate people like you have. Some pros are junkies and I think you ought to apologise to all of us for making that remark. I'm on DSS and now have 25 days to find somewhere to live because people like you are discriminating to Landlords and putting decent people like me down and all the rest that may be on DSS for health reasons. You are a disgrace.
Yes you are!! I've got a BA and am a professional and just lost my job through no fault of my own and I would never discriminate people like you have. Some pros are junkies and I think you ought to apologise to all of us for making that remark. I'm on DSS and now have 25 days to find somewhere to live because people like you are discriminating to Landlords and putting decent people like me down and all the rest that may be on DSS for health reasons. You are a disgrace.
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The Landlord2011-10-14 14:41:58
Ok, I apologise.
I hope that makes it easier for you to find somewhere to live.
I hope that makes it easier for you to find somewhere to live.
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grenville2011-10-21 12:33:35
power to the people....greedy landlords suck....and yes i am in employment..white collerr worker...help people who are less fotunate tan youselfs...i accept dss tennants on the two properties that i let. have had no problems at all
251
Andrew2011-10-21 15:58:43
What an absolute load of rubbish. My girlfriend is a very well educated and refined person who just happens to have young children and therefore cannot work at the moment. I myself am in a very well paid position within one of the worlds largest companies however before this I relocated back to Scotland due to family and had to register with the DSS before I was able to find work. Nightmare trying to find a property and to try and convince prospective landlords that I am a decent person. My girlfriend who is stuck in a two bedroom pokey flat with 3 kids and no space is finding it almost impossible to find a place because of this type of tripe. It is blatant discrimination and there should be some sort of law against this. Yes if I had a house I would want to know my rent would be paid and my property looked after but to dismiss ANYONE who is on DSS without even considering that they may be a good tenant is ridiculous. Something should be done to contest this behaviour. I am starting to get really pissed off with it.
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joanne2011-10-22 01:26:02
i think its down to the individuals themselves weather they are good tennants or not, doesnt make any difference on personal and financial aspects, its weather your a decent human being who has respect for yourself and your landlord,im currently stuck in an area on a busy main road with three children,its a council property and the area is not exactly where i like my children to grow, however due to medical conditions i am unable to work which kills me,i cant afford the stupid agency fees and checks and will more than likely still be in this dump for the next ten years, but no matter how much i have begged on gumtree to help me so my children have a better place to live, its always been no dss or a hefty bond and deposit, not all people on dss are animals lol, lots are decent just looking for a better life for there kids like me and a nice area for them to grow up in, its a shame but dss claimers are doomed, its about time some letting agencies create a just dss letting, reduced bonds and deposits, and crb and background checks,and interviews, and the rent should me made compulsary to be directly payed to the landlord no ifs or buts, then maybe my girls would have a better life, id live in a box if i didnt have children, but i want a nice home for them and we dont stand a chance.
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Aleasha2011-10-25 20:07:37
This article made me so upset.... i am currently a dss tenant as im a single mum studying at college to better myself in later life and get out of these hell holes i keep getting given as landlords seem to think if they have a crap hole of a house they can give it to dss tenants. I have made my home a home but with only electric heating being promised gas heating years ago, broken down cookers which ive had to fork out for and pay as my landlord does nothing about any of it i have gone to housing standers and everything, also a lovely thing called mould which you landlords seem to forget about. I am not a irresponsible person and i am just as reliable as the people not paying with dss. i have had two really bad flats with dss mould everywhere with heat escaping... so before people slate dss tenants i think they need to look at how disgusting some/most landlords treat dss tenants... not all of us are the same.
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Matthew Dickinson2011-10-26 09:30:40
Aleasha, If all this is true, may I suggest thjat you call at your local Citizens Advice Bureau, and they will give you all the information that you need to make your landlord redress all the problems! If the house is rented through a letting agent, then they are the first port of call. But it is amazing how much information can be obtained from the CAB and they will direct you to the correct departments to complain to. It amazed me how useful they are, as they know all the right questions to ask!
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Aleasha2011-10-26 20:27:08
Hiya Matthew, I have been in contact with citizens advice and have housing standers coming out to my home very soon. I have also made an appointment with my local mp to speak about the standers some landlords choice to let dss tents live. Also by seeing my local mp I will hopefully get something sorted out for my family aswell.
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Chris2011-11-23 14:04:56
What about people who are self employed and are on LHA?
Would they be barred from renting.
Would they be barred from renting.
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Chris2011-11-23 14:32:25
I reckon those that want to change the system.
They should take this to the European Court of Human Rights and sort this "I'm not renting to such and such bollocks" once and for all.
They should take this to the European Court of Human Rights and sort this "I'm not renting to such and such bollocks" once and for all.
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K Gerrie2011-11-24 10:31:42
DSS tenants are receiving benefits for a reason, so they’re often individuals with unstable and/or shady backgrounds
What a load of rubbish!
I have rented from private landlords whilst i have been in receipt of housing benefits in the past.
Of course according to this statement that must mean im an undesirable, well no actually. I have always worked and due to a marriage breakdown found myself having to claim the benefits which i was entitled to, in order to bring up my two sons.
If everyone had this narrow minded and quite frankly disgusting attitude then people who desperately need help through circumstances beyond their control would end up on the streets.
Oh and btw i have always worked, from leaving school to serving in the armed forces and after having my children.
Its time this outmoded concept was buried for once and for all.
What a load of rubbish!
I have rented from private landlords whilst i have been in receipt of housing benefits in the past.
Of course according to this statement that must mean im an undesirable, well no actually. I have always worked and due to a marriage breakdown found myself having to claim the benefits which i was entitled to, in order to bring up my two sons.
If everyone had this narrow minded and quite frankly disgusting attitude then people who desperately need help through circumstances beyond their control would end up on the streets.
Oh and btw i have always worked, from leaving school to serving in the armed forces and after having my children.
Its time this outmoded concept was buried for once and for all.
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Benji2011-11-24 10:53:22
K,
I kinda agree,
but the post actually said 'theyre OFTEN individuals with unstable and/or shady backgrounds'
not that all of them are.
I kinda agree,
but the post actually said 'theyre OFTEN individuals with unstable and/or shady backgrounds'
not that all of them are.
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K Gerrie2011-11-24 11:16:10
Hi Benji, yes it did use the word often, however i still feel that you cannot quantify people in such a way. I do feel there is a culture of vilifying those who claim benefits. Just felt i had to say my piece.
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David Booth2011-11-24 20:41:53
Landlords if you have problems getting payments from DSS tennants there is a new solution...I would like to take my time to introduce you to our new company Tasker Payment Services. The company is designed as a one of it's kind payment service for DSS claimants and their landlords. Customers who do not have a bank account, or have large overdrafts eating into their Local Housing Allowance can use our service to have the peace of mind that their rent is paid straight to their landlord's bank account on time, every time.
With much experience in dealing with such payments, landlords can rely on Tasker Payment Services to provide them and their tenants with a reliable and secure way of receiving their rent.
We are fully registered with the FSA (registration number 564939) and can be found on the FSA's register of payment service providers.
The idea behind our company is simple the tennant agrees to pay our company (Tasker Payment Services) the money they get from the LHA and the landlord gets paid from us fortnightly. All we take £4.00 transaction fee for transferring the money to the landlords bank account.
This also helps out the council because they dont have to deal with arrears and it could help the council because more landlords would want to register because they know they are going to get paid.
If you would like to visit our website http://taskerpaymentservices.co.uk/ and read a little more about us if you have any questions please feel free to ask.
With much experience in dealing with such payments, landlords can rely on Tasker Payment Services to provide them and their tenants with a reliable and secure way of receiving their rent.
We are fully registered with the FSA (registration number 564939) and can be found on the FSA's register of payment service providers.
The idea behind our company is simple the tennant agrees to pay our company (Tasker Payment Services) the money they get from the LHA and the landlord gets paid from us fortnightly. All we take £4.00 transaction fee for transferring the money to the landlords bank account.
This also helps out the council because they dont have to deal with arrears and it could help the council because more landlords would want to register because they know they are going to get paid.
If you would like to visit our website http://taskerpaymentservices.co.uk/ and read a little more about us if you have any questions please feel free to ask.
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NP.2011-11-27 10:26:06
I think landlords have a right to rent their property to whomever they like. It is their investment and they can choose who they believe is suitable. Saying that, I dont make assumptions based on whether a tenant is on dss or not.
My criteria is always the same - decent refs, deposit and rent upfront (and someone I believe I will get along with during the tenancy). At present I have 3 dss tenants/families, never a late payment, never any problems, and they respect that their property is properly maintained.
So, I think its narrow minded that landlords automatically reject dss (although I understand previous bad experiences - however believe that it was a poor choice made by the landlord initially).
And, I cant stand - and have never let to DSS tenants that winge at me and expect pity - everyone has problems!
There are shitty landlords and shitty tenants, just like there are brilliant landlords and tenants, its just about finding the suitable ones to rent to/from.
My criteria is always the same - decent refs, deposit and rent upfront (and someone I believe I will get along with during the tenancy). At present I have 3 dss tenants/families, never a late payment, never any problems, and they respect that their property is properly maintained.
So, I think its narrow minded that landlords automatically reject dss (although I understand previous bad experiences - however believe that it was a poor choice made by the landlord initially).
And, I cant stand - and have never let to DSS tenants that winge at me and expect pity - everyone has problems!
There are shitty landlords and shitty tenants, just like there are brilliant landlords and tenants, its just about finding the suitable ones to rent to/from.
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Becky2012-01-03 22:30:48
What an awful person! Your so judgemental. I've worked full time since the day I left school. I've recently had a baby and my partner has just had open heart surgery he needs full time care. So I'm unable to work. And your sarcastic comment to the lady who can't find somewhere to live with her daughter is extremely immature, it really makes you as low as us DSS scum. Shame that.
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Jay2012-01-05 14:13:26
:L arrogant arse!
I'm 16 and live with my disabled mum for whom I also care for, I have one brother.
We were kicked out totally by surprise by my mothers parter who we used to live with. We told the council we where homeless because we had no where else to go luckly my mothers friend took us in to her 3 bed house and her 3 children it was cramped!
The council said they could do nothing about it and said we had to look for rentals and as you could imagine they all said NO DDS, we did so. we found a 3 bedroom nice house in an ideal locations and a year later the landlord puts the house up for sale without even telling us! she also did this to my mothers friend as they shared landlords. the council said we had to wait for an eviction notice before they could do anything! its always made to look like people on DDS are scrounging and rif-raf nd i've had enough. My mother despite her mental illnesses is actually one of the smartest people i know. she only wants the best for me and brother and not being able to do this because of small minded idiots is making her illnesses worse. Change is needed now!
I'm 16 and live with my disabled mum for whom I also care for, I have one brother.
We were kicked out totally by surprise by my mothers parter who we used to live with. We told the council we where homeless because we had no where else to go luckly my mothers friend took us in to her 3 bed house and her 3 children it was cramped!
The council said they could do nothing about it and said we had to look for rentals and as you could imagine they all said NO DDS, we did so. we found a 3 bedroom nice house in an ideal locations and a year later the landlord puts the house up for sale without even telling us! she also did this to my mothers friend as they shared landlords. the council said we had to wait for an eviction notice before they could do anything! its always made to look like people on DDS are scrounging and rif-raf nd i've had enough. My mother despite her mental illnesses is actually one of the smartest people i know. she only wants the best for me and brother and not being able to do this because of small minded idiots is making her illnesses worse. Change is needed now!
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Nia2012-01-05 19:09:06
I'm sorry but every reason for not allowing Housing Benefit recipients rent homes are things people will encounter whether their tenant recieves benefits or not.
Why does it really matter where your rent payments come from?
So what you are really saying that anybody who DOESN'T recieving housing benefit is a decent person and has more morals than a person who is on HB?
This is pure discrimination and it is my absolute mission to bring this to higher people.
I recieve HB because I was born with Spina Bifida, I am a lower leg amputee, I suffer with chronic pain and I don't drive. There is absolutely NO way I can work at this time in my life. And trust me, I would give ANYTHING to be able to get up and go to work each day and earn my own money.
I'm very luck my landlord is a good person. He recieves his rent payments from me, in time without fail.
Why does it really matter where your rent payments come from?
So what you are really saying that anybody who DOESN'T recieving housing benefit is a decent person and has more morals than a person who is on HB?
This is pure discrimination and it is my absolute mission to bring this to higher people.
I recieve HB because I was born with Spina Bifida, I am a lower leg amputee, I suffer with chronic pain and I don't drive. There is absolutely NO way I can work at this time in my life. And trust me, I would give ANYTHING to be able to get up and go to work each day and earn my own money.
I'm very luck my landlord is a good person. He recieves his rent payments from me, in time without fail.
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Benji2012-01-05 20:35:33
Nia,
If a "HB recipient" doesnt pay, a landlord has to take on The Council, Possession Order process, Legal Aid, TRO, Shelter, CAB, Lawyers R Us and Uncle Tom Cobley.
And has no chance of chasing any future earnings.
And payment is not made direct.
And it is in arrears.
Mention that to your 'higher people' and you might make a difference.
If a "HB recipient" doesnt pay, a landlord has to take on The Council, Possession Order process, Legal Aid, TRO, Shelter, CAB, Lawyers R Us and Uncle Tom Cobley.
And has no chance of chasing any future earnings.
And payment is not made direct.
And it is in arrears.
Mention that to your 'higher people' and you might make a difference.
267
Pauline Tovee2012-01-05 20:45:35
@Benji..
In reply to your post a few moments ago.. All that you wrote can be totally avoided, by simply asking the renter to ask Council to pay their HB directly to the Landlord. That is a situation which should be discussed between Landlord and Tenant.. I have my HB paid directly to my landlord and top up the difference myself, I am disabled as I have previously mentioned, Thankfully I have a fantastic landlord, but then again, I have spent nearly a £1000 over the past 16 months on the garden in my basement flat alone... I worked for all of my life since aged 15, sadly no longer able to... though because my physical health is bad my brain still work, which is why I am back into university doing a degree, yet most landlords would totally discriminate against me, 1. for being on benefits, and 2. for being disabled... When it all comes down to it, how many landlords really take care of their tenants??? why is it always an 'Oh Woe is me' from a landlord... there is good and bad in everyone.. just because of a few bad apples, it does not mean that tenants are to be judged the same as Landlords should not all be judged... though if there is much more discrimination, I shall support all of those who are on HB for whatever reason.. And join with any class action to prevent this atrocity continuing through arrogance of some landlords towards their tenants...
In reply to your post a few moments ago.. All that you wrote can be totally avoided, by simply asking the renter to ask Council to pay their HB directly to the Landlord. That is a situation which should be discussed between Landlord and Tenant.. I have my HB paid directly to my landlord and top up the difference myself, I am disabled as I have previously mentioned, Thankfully I have a fantastic landlord, but then again, I have spent nearly a £1000 over the past 16 months on the garden in my basement flat alone... I worked for all of my life since aged 15, sadly no longer able to... though because my physical health is bad my brain still work, which is why I am back into university doing a degree, yet most landlords would totally discriminate against me, 1. for being on benefits, and 2. for being disabled... When it all comes down to it, how many landlords really take care of their tenants??? why is it always an 'Oh Woe is me' from a landlord... there is good and bad in everyone.. just because of a few bad apples, it does not mean that tenants are to be judged the same as Landlords should not all be judged... though if there is much more discrimination, I shall support all of those who are on HB for whatever reason.. And join with any class action to prevent this atrocity continuing through arrogance of some landlords towards their tenants...
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Benji2012-01-05 21:03:35
Pauline,
A good retort!
But perhaps youre not seeing where Im coming from.
I want landlords to take on 'HB' etc.
But.
It is a real pain for landlords to get paid direct- So why should they bother?
Plus as I said earlier-
-If a "HB recipient" doesnt pay, a landlord has to take on The Council, Possession Order process, Legal Aid, TRO, Shelter, CAB, Lawyers R Us and Uncle Tom Cobley.
And has no chance of chasing any future earnings.
And it is in arrears-
So why should they bother?
A good retort!
But perhaps youre not seeing where Im coming from.
I want landlords to take on 'HB' etc.
But.
It is a real pain for landlords to get paid direct- So why should they bother?
Plus as I said earlier-
-If a "HB recipient" doesnt pay, a landlord has to take on The Council, Possession Order process, Legal Aid, TRO, Shelter, CAB, Lawyers R Us and Uncle Tom Cobley.
And has no chance of chasing any future earnings.
And it is in arrears-
So why should they bother?
269
Steve2012-01-13 14:17:48
So if i go by this post and comments all LHA/DSS claiments are work shy scammer? Well as i know theres good and bad people not matter there background i do this post offending!
Why,because im a DSS claiment not because i choose to be. Because after serving 9 year in the british army and fighting for the your right to be free! I have PTSD and other disorders.
I have for the past 3 years since i was discharged on medical grounds rented an appartment off a private landlord and not only been a good tenant but also done my fair share of improvment to the property. Now i know the bad will as outsize the good but just think why some people are on DSS. Because im on DSS and if it were'nt people like me put our lives and wellbeing on the line there would'nt be a country for you to rent properties in!
Thanks
Why,because im a DSS claiment not because i choose to be. Because after serving 9 year in the british army and fighting for the your right to be free! I have PTSD and other disorders.
I have for the past 3 years since i was discharged on medical grounds rented an appartment off a private landlord and not only been a good tenant but also done my fair share of improvment to the property. Now i know the bad will as outsize the good but just think why some people are on DSS. Because im on DSS and if it were'nt people like me put our lives and wellbeing on the line there would'nt be a country for you to rent properties in!
Thanks
270
Benji2012-01-13 18:23:00
Steve,
If youve been M.D'd for PTSD, didnt you get one or more of; a lump sum, war pension, AFCS, ill health pension etc? If not, you can still put a claim in now.
If youre still struggling, theres a lot of help available from your Regimental Association, SSAFA, RBL, combat stress and many others. They work very hard to prevent ex squaddies being homeless and will always help, however long youve been out.
If you approach a 'no DSS' landlord with the backing of one of the above organisations, many will re-consider.
I agree, landlords should do all they can to support our Armed Forces.
If youve been M.D'd for PTSD, didnt you get one or more of; a lump sum, war pension, AFCS, ill health pension etc? If not, you can still put a claim in now.
If youre still struggling, theres a lot of help available from your Regimental Association, SSAFA, RBL, combat stress and many others. They work very hard to prevent ex squaddies being homeless and will always help, however long youve been out.
If you approach a 'no DSS' landlord with the backing of one of the above organisations, many will re-consider.
I agree, landlords should do all they can to support our Armed Forces.
271
Father To Be2012-01-13 21:13:41
How About being a father to be and once dss is mentioned they tell us sorry we cant help ....
were living in a sammll box in central london waiting for a house ... are little one is born in a month thankyou London ,,, Agents
half of them arent english anyway ,, what gives them the rights,,,
were living in a sammll box in central london waiting for a house ... are little one is born in a month thankyou London ,,, Agents
half of them arent english anyway ,, what gives them the rights,,,
272
MRS YALLOP2012-01-23 22:07:37
There are peaple that take the biscuit but not the majority .rules have got harder for landlords because some are not good landlords either greedy and spoil it for the next.reading through these landlords arnt nice humanbeings.
273
Laura b2012-01-26 22:48:24
What about all the shitty landlords who leave tenants with dangerous electrics, leaking roofs, dodgy gas fires and damp walls. Whilst raking in the cash, saving for the early retirement or the world cruise..... Its all about crucifying those who make a few mistakes in life....Or have simply been unfortunate. I wonder how many of these amazing landords, generationally have benefitted from the right to buy scheme, robbing a whole generation of decent social housing. Shame on you. Ps. I have never claimed 1 penny in benefits nor am I a hippy, i do not hug trees or smoke cannabis. So you can stick your sterotypes where the sun dont shine.
274
Alan2012-01-30 00:45:12
You are an arsehole, there are a lot of decent people in this world and then come across someone like you. I rent privately and I get my HB paid straight to the landlord. Oh and about meeting the shortfall if you know how to do math, the shortfall wouldn't be very much dependent on circumstance.
You say sorry, that's not good enough, have a car crash, break your legs, realize you can't work and any pay your morgage off, loose your house and put your yourself in the situation like all off us reply to your dumb founded bullshit. You should be ashamed u fucking coward.
You say sorry, that's not good enough, have a car crash, break your legs, realize you can't work and any pay your morgage off, loose your house and put your yourself in the situation like all off us reply to your dumb founded bullshit. You should be ashamed u fucking coward.
275
Amie2012-01-31 22:49:17
I think local councils should still pay the rent direct its unfair on the genuine people who need private rent but cannot work. Its so hard to find private rent who take dss,not all people are noisy or dirty. Im in reciept of benefits and have a disabled partner and also a special needs son,i need to get a house nearer to my fmaily to help me with things due to my partners long term illness but no one will entertain me because im on benefits. I have an out standing rent account even when i wasnt on benefits i ahve the deposits for private rent but no one gives me a chance it isnt fair.
The council are to blame for so much homelessness START PAYING THE RENT DIRECT TO THE LANDLORD!!
The council are to blame for so much homelessness START PAYING THE RENT DIRECT TO THE LANDLORD!!
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