When we get your claim form, which includes:
Proof of how much rent you pay, and
Proof of earnings if you are working.
Proof of all your other income and capital.
We will work out your 'eligible rent'. This is the rent you pay each week after we have deducted the amount you pay for any services.
The Rent Service & Rent Officers
The Rent Service (TRS) is an executive agency of the Department for Work and Pensions. TRS provides valuations for local authorities in England, for use in the assessment of claims for Housing Benefit where the tenant is renting from a private landlord.
Housing Benefit Determinations
In making a determination the Rent Officer will consider:
The determination will usually run for 12 months unless there is a significant change to the property or the number of people included within the household.
Pre-tenancy determinations (PTD)
If you are claiming housing benefit and are planning to rent from a private landlord you can ask TRS to make a valuation before you sign the tenancy agreement. You need to complete a pre-tenancy determination form available on TRS website or from Great Yarmouth Borough Council Housing Benefit department . The PTD form needs to be signed by you as the prospective tenant, and either the landlord or landlords agent, and returned to Great Yarmouth Borough Council Housing Benefit department. This form must not be sent direct to The Rent Service.
To learn more about The Rent Service click on the following link to their website and visit their Frequently Asked Questions section:
http://www.therentservice.gov.uk/