If you are a Carer, managing your home alongside caring responsibilities can feel overwhelming. This page offers practical advice to help you keep your private rented home secure including paying your rent on time, managing money, and knowing where to get support.
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Understanding your responsibilities as a tenant
Understanding your responsibilities as a tenant
When you rent a home privately, you have certain responsibilities. One of the most important is paying your rent on time and in full.
If rent is not paid, your landlord may take action, including starting eviction proceedings.
It’s also important to:
- Follow the terms of your tenancy agreement
- Look after the property
- Report repairs or safety concerns
Paying your rent on time
Paying rent regularly helps you stay secure in your home and avoid stress later on.
Top tips:
- Set up a standing order or direct debit
- Plan your budget around your rent due date
- Keep a record of payments
If you think you might struggle to pay:
- Act early and don’t ignore the problem
- Speak to your landlord as soon as possible
- Seek advice straight away
Paying your rent on time
If you are struggling to pay rent
If you are struggling to pay rent
If your income changes or caring responsibilities affect your finances, there is support available.
You may be able to:
- Apply for Universal Credit housing costs
- Access charitable grants
- Get help creating a repayment plan
Taking action early can prevent rent arrears from building up
Dealing with rent arrears
If you have fallen behind on rent, you are not alone. Help is available.
What you can do:
- Pay what you can, even small amounts
- Contact your landlord to agree a plan
- Get advice before the situation worsens
If arrears continue, your landlord could take legal action to evict you.
Dealing with rent arrears
Budgeting and managing your money
Budgeting and managing your money
Balancing caring responsibilities and finances can be difficult, but small steps can help.
Try to:
- Create a simple weekly or monthly budget
- Prioritise essential costs like rent and bills
- Check you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to
Communicating with your landlord
Good communication can help prevent problems from escalating.
- Let your landlord know early if you’re having difficulties
- Keep communication in writing where possible
- Be honest about what you can afford
Many landlords are more willing to work with tenants who communicate openly.
Communicating with your landlord
Carers’ Support Service is here to make sure unpaid carers are seen, supported and never left to struggle alone.
The Carers’ Support Centre
Registered Charity Number: 1070028
Company Limited by Guarantee.
Registration number: 3540988
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