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Lockdown rights explained for tenants

Lockdown rights explained for tenants

Tuesday 28 April 2020

Lockdown rights explained for tenants

Tuesday 28 April 2020


Fresh advice has been issued to landlords and tenants who may be having difficulties during the lockdown, including reassurance for those renting that they can't be easily evicted.

Landlords have also been told any non essential visits including inspections should be postponed but any urgent maintenance work on their properties must be carried out.

"Landlords have the same responsibilities for arranging emergency repairs during the covid-19 outbreak as normal", said the guidance. 

Tenants should report all necessary repairs to their landlord, while anyone living in social rented housing should contact their usual helplines.

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Pictured: The telephone numbers above are for emergency use only.

All lodgers and tenants are being told to remain living where they are as the lockdown continues.

If you can't do so then you can call a new helpline on 756535 between 08:30 and 16:00 on weekdays, that has been launched to give support and advice. The latest guidance is also available to read HERE.

Advice can also be sought by emailing housinghelp@gov.gg.

The guidance covers topics such as: what to do if a fixed term tenancy is coming to an end, if the tenant or lodger is facing eviction or if the property they are renting needs emergency repairs.

The guidance also provides advice about where to seek help if temporary accommodation is needed or if someone is struggling to pay their rent or utility bills.

If a tenancy agreement has come to an end, the guidance suggests discussing an extension with the landlord but if the landlord has started eviction proceedings already then legal advice should be sought.

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Pictured: Advice and support is available for those struggling financially. 

If a tenant is having financial trouble then there is support available to help them continue to pay their essential bills.

Landlords may be able to reduce or defer payments, while the Hardship fund can offer some financial support. Social housing tenants should speak to their Management for advice. 

Any difficulties paying utility bills should be discussed with the individual firms.

There is also  support available for anyone who is in a dangerous situation as a result of domestic abuse. Safer has a 24/7 helpline (01481 721999) or call 999 in an emergency.

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