Herbie

I wanted to note something important that has happened this week and which I tried to fit in to the Big Question of the Week (even though it wasn't directly relevant).

My private landlord has renewed my tenancy for another year. This has been playing on my mind as it does every year - but this year has been different. There are fewer places to rent. I need 3 bedrooms but was only able to get a 2 bed in July 2020, when I separated. Apart from the missing bedroom (the girls have a bedroom each, my lounge is our dining room and my bedroom, and where I work from home) the flat is ideal as only 10m walk from school and near shops and my work office.

There are other 2-bed flats around, in the same block of flats, and area - but they are going for up to £300pcm MORE than I am paying. So if the landlord had not renewed I don't know what I would have done.

Also, the tenancy agreement allows for a rent increase to match inflation if renewed. This would be a 10% increase on a budget I am just managing.

The landlord, for some reason I will never understand, has not increased the rent. I've been quiet all week from telling anyone because I honestly thought it was a mistake - but the hard copy came through today and no change.

The April benefit increase in my UC will take effect from my payment in June - and I will actually see the benefit of this. It wont be taken up with rent.

I am chuffed to bits that I got the renewal and obviously with no increase in rent. I will be able to pay the kids more pocket money now so they can go out with their mates in the summer vacation.

I needed to share this.