Purpose

Brief
Summary of Issues (English & Welsh) 
A Social Housing Rent Policy was introduced in
2020/2021.  This allows for a maximum
rent increase of September CPI + 1%. This policy was originally for
5 years and has been extended into 2025/26
 
If
CPI is above 3%, the Welsh Government Minister will be required to
decide about any rent increase that can be applied.
 
When
deciding on whether to apply the increase, consideration must be
given to the value for money and affordability for tenants. Any
possible cost efficiencies that can be made on the Housing Revenue
Budget must also be considered.
 
The
introduction of the Renting Homes Wales Act (2016) on 1st December
2022, stipulated that 2 months’ notice must be given to
contract holders (tenants) before amending any rents.
 
The
cabinet report will lay out the proposal for setting rents in
considering affordability, value for money and any savings
identified.
 
 

Content

Cllr Ash Lister declared a personal interest in Item
7, as he has a family member who is a Council tenant
 
RESOLVED: that
 
a)   
the proposed approach for rent and service charge
setting for Council owned dwellings for financial year 2025/26 be
approved. 
 
b)   
the financial pressures on the HRA be
noted.
 
c)   
the support available for tenants who may be
struggling financially be noted.