Universal Credit: Housing
Commons · Question 16351 · Tabled 6 Jul 2026 · Department for Work and Pensions · Official record
Answered 15 Jul 2026
Question
Asked by Joshua Reynolds
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of protections for private landlords where Universal Credit housing costs have been paid to tenants but the rent has not subsequently been paid to the landlor
Answer
Answered by Sir Stephen Timms, 15 Jul 2026
The default position in Universal Credit is that claimants should manage their own finances, including payment of their rent. This encourages self-reliance and eases the transition back into work.Where a claimant is vulnerable or if they get into arrears,...