PKC rent changes come into effect

The way rent is charged by Perth and Kinross Council has changed.

As of Monday, April 3, the council replaced the previous points-based system with an updated model in an effort to make the charges easier to understand.

The new charges could see some local authority tenants’ rent increase by up to £25 a week.

Previously, the rent was calculated on a number of factors including property size, type, amenities and location, and the yearly total was paid over a 48-week period. This was deemed to be complex and unfair.

The new charging system will also see payments over 52 weeks introduced. This new structure was agreed upon by the council’s housing and health committee in August 2016 to move rent payments in line with universal credit, which is paid on a monthly basis. In a consultation, 72.3% of tenants agreed with the move to a 52-week payment structure.

It is hope the increase in the number of yearly payments to 52 will lessen the impact of those whose rent will be increasing under yesterday’s changes.

Rent will still be required to be paid to Perth and Kinross Council in advance, however those wishing to continue to pay over 48 rather than the new 52 weeks, can opt to do so.

Tenants can calculate their new rate rates online at www. pkc.gov.uk/rentstructure, and can receive more information by calling the council’s area housing team on 01738 47600 (option 2).