Rent Increase 2026

I receive full Housing Benefit to pay my rent, do I need to do anything about the rent increase?

No, your Housing Benefit payments will increase in-line with the Rent increase. If you have a change in your circumstances, contact Housing Benefit to discuss this.

I receive partial Housing Benefit towards my rent, do I need to do anything about the rent increase?

Yes. You will receive notification from Housing Benefit of the new awarded amount and this will continue to be paid to BCH directly. You will need to ensure the remainder of your rent charged is covered by the payment method you use and increase payments if needed.

I claim Universal Credit, do I need to do anything about the rent increase?

Yes, you will need to report your rent increase to Universal Credit using your online Journal on 6th April 2026. You cannot report the increase prior to 6th April. You will receive a letter detailing your new housing costs shortly (if you haven’t already).

I’m on Universal Credit and my rent is paid directly to BCH, do I need to do anything?

Other than reporting your rent increase to Universal Credit (see above), no. Universal Credit will continue to make the payments directly to BCH if this has already been setup.

I pay my rent by Direct Debit, do I need to do anything about the rent increase?

No, if you pay part or all of your rent by Direct Debit we will alter you Direct Debit payment accordingly and write to you with the new payment amount.

I pay my rent using my bank card over the phone or online, do I need to do anything?

Yes, you will need to increase the amount you pay in line with your rent increase notice. You can continue to pay your rent online using the quick link button available on our home page or by telephoning the automated payment line on 01253 478983.

I pay my rent using a PayPoint or at a Post Office, do I need to do anything?

Yes, you will need to increase the amount you pay in line with your rent increase notice.