Universal Credit warning: Renters could be made to pay back thousands in housing benefit
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is examining claims made during the pandemic that were approved without going through the standard verification processes. In particular, the DWP is revisiting claims made by private renters on Universal Credit during the lockdowns. It’s thought many Brits could owe thousands.
When the first lockdown came into force in May 2020, the DWP stopped all in-person interviews and full checks for some verification processes were also stopped.
Basic checks such as asking for a copy of a tenancy agreement for new claimants were sidetracked as JobCentres were closed and all new claims were made online or over the phone.
Many renters may be forced to repay thousands if they cannot prove their tenancy to the level required by the DWP.
Many brits who, despite paying rent over the pandemic, may sublet or have what is known as a “rent-to-rent” arrangement may not be able to provide proof of tenancy to the level the DWP requires.
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