Your top questions about housing answered

Andrew: As a tenant, you can apply for a one-off Discretionary Housing Payment to help with rent or a rent deposit if you’re claiming Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. Both tenants and homeowners on a low income or claiming benefits can consider applying for Council Tax Reduction (sometimes called Council Tax Support). Find out if you are eligible at gov.uk.

Andrew: To access the best-available mortgage rates, you’ll need a good credit score. Checking for any errors on your credit report; avoiding too many credit applications; and reducing personal debt, such as loans and credit cards, is a good starting point. Having a bigger deposit will also help you access better interest rates and improve your chances of being accepted. Lenders will see you as being less likely to fall behind on your repayments.

Beth: You may be able to get Housing Benefit, a Council Tax discount and other benefits to help with living costs.

Andrew: The main alternative is social housing, where you rent from a housing association or your council. It can be a lot cheaper, but available properties are in short supply and there are long waiting lists. Alternatively, you could consider moving back in with your parents or family as a temporary measure. Sharing the costs of renting a property with a friend may also provide a realistic and more affordable option.

Beth: The council may owe you what’s called the ‘prevention duty’ to help stop you becoming homeless. Be aware, though, that this is not the same as offering you a new home. If you’re already homeless, the council may be required in law to do more to help you. You don’t have to be sleeping on the streets to count as being homeless. Advicenow has a survival guide – this will help you work out what help you are entitled to.