Annual Rent Letter – Everything You Need to Know

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You will receive your annual rent letter this week. The letter will include information about an increase to your rent.

In recent years rent increases have been set at inflation (CPI), plus 1% which would have meant an 11.1% increase for 2023. However, given cost of living pressures the government decided that the majority of rent increases would be capped at 7%, with certain exceptions still permitted up to 11.1%. However, we will not be applying the 1% top up to the exception cases. These exceptions include supported housing. The Government rent cap does not apply to Shared Ownership rents.

To help you understand the rent increase and answer any questions you may have, we have the following information available:

• A message from our Group Chief Executive Wayne Gethings
• More details on how we invest the money we receive from rents
• Frequently Asked Questions

The increase in rent will allow The Wrekin Housing Group to offset significant cost increases in a number of areas and also to allow us to continue to investment in our customers’ homes. The cost of delivering repairs and planned maintenance has increased between 10-15%. This is a result of rising cost of materials, supplies and labour.

We are making further investments in improving our properties, making them safer and more comfortable. We will also continue to make money available to support tenants and communities. Focusing on the future, we’re investing in the energy efficiency of our properties to meet Government targets to cut carbon emissions.

We recognise that this increase has come at a time when other household bills are rising. Our priority is to support tenants to sustain their tenancy. We have created a new cost-of-living section on our website – which features a wealth of information on the support that is available for you – from both Wrekin and beyond.

If you’re concerned about money or having difficulty paying your rent we want to hear from you as soon as possible. Your housing executive is on hand to provide you with support to pay your rent. Our Money Matters Team can provide you with guidance and advice on maximising your income and claiming benefits.

10th February 2023