Rent and Charges – Market Rent 

Customers are responsible for paying rent and service charges, as well as other fees to Plumlife Homes. You can use our online Portal to check your account, view your statement and see what charges are associated with your property.

Why is my rent increasing?

We review the rent for your home on 1st of April each year and we do this based on valuations of similar properties in the surrounding area, as per the terms of your agreement.   

We try to strike a balance between keeping rents affordable, and making sure we can maintain the quality of our homes and neighbourhoods.  

What do I do if I can’t afford the increase?

If you’re struggling to pay your charges, contact our friendly team on 0161 447 5050 or email directory@plumlife.co.uk. We know that rising costs will be a significant challenge for many of our customers and we will be able to provide some helpful advice.

I am on Universal Credit; will I have to re-apply and will this mean weeks of delays in my rent being paid and accumulating rent arrears?

You will not have to complete a brand new claim with the Department for Work and Pensions. Once we write to let you know of the new rent Universal Credit will prompt you in your journal after 1 April 2024 so that you can advise them of your new rent and service charge. This is the only time you need to respond about the new rent.

What if I claim Housing Benefit?

Get in touch with the Housing Benefit team at your local council to advise of your new charges from 1 April 2024.

Do I have to adjust my Direct Debit mandate with my bank?

Don’t worry, your Direct Debit will be adjusted automatically. After we write to you at the end of February notifying you of your rent increase, we will adjust your Direct Debit and you will receive information from Allpay to confirm your new monthly payments. If you have a repayment plan for any arrears, we will add the additional amount onto your monthly Direct Debit total. We will amend your new payments in line with the new charge.   If your account has an outstanding balance of £25 or less, we will collect this in your first Direct Debit payment in April.

Do I have to adjust my Standing Order?

If you pay by Standing Order, contact your bank to change the amount to your new charge starting from 1 April 2024.

What if I’m in arrears?

We’re here to help. Get in touch with your Income Officer if you have arrears on your account and want to discuss increasing your payments or Direct Debit to cover this debt.

When will my increase take effect?

You’ll receive information about your rent increase in February 2024. The new charges will then apply from the beginning of April 2024.