The RLA responds to the National Audit Office’s report on the roll out of Universal Credit

The RLA responds to the National Audit Office’s report  on the roll out of Universal Credit, David Smith, Policy Director for the Residential Landlords Association, commented:

“Whilst it is clear that Universal Credit is here to stay, today’s report recognises the difficulties faced by tenants and landlords as a result of rent arrears. The RLA’s most recent research found that 38 per cent of landlords have experienced universal credit tenants going into rent arrears over the previous 12 months.

“The RLA has previously called for a pause to the roll of Universal Credit, and it would seem prudent to do so as the Department undertakes its promised work to understand the impact of the policy on rent arrears.

“In the meantime, we welcome continued positive discussions with the Government and will continue to push for pragmatic changes to secure further improvements for tenants and landlords building on the changes announced in the autumn budget last year.”

Source of information from RLA.