Social housing provider Caridon Property is hosting a series of free seminars to prepare letting agents for the migration of Housing Benefit to Universal Credit.

Over the next 18 months the Department for Work and Pensions plans to transfer a further 2.5m claimants, many of whom are currently claiming Housing Benefit, paid direct to their landlord, over to Universal Credit where different rules apply. 

These changes will be applied across the UK and the forced transfer poses a threat to vulnerable tenants and existing housing benefit arrangements with councils, which protect both tenants and landlords. 

It’s feared by some that removing these safeguards could potentially cause rent arrears.

Caridon chief executive Mario Carrozzo says: “We recognise the importance of staying informed in this ever-changing rental landscape and supporting our tenants through the sometimes complex and time-consuming process.

“We are preparing staff and tenants for the challenges ahead because we know from experience, that being fully prepared for the transition helps to mitigate many of the problems which could arise. We are hosting this event because we want to share our concerns and plans with others, so that landlords and letting agents who also operate in this niche part of the market can understand and plan for how the changes affect them .”

The guest speaker at the seminar is Bill Irvine, ex-government advisor and benefits expert. The event will conclude with time for networking with fellow landlords and industry professionals over refreshments.

It takes place in Croydon on October 24 between 2pm and 6pm and to book you can Click Here.