The Renters' Reform Coalition (RRC), a leading alliance of major housing and renter organisations, has responded to the government budget announced today (Wednesday 26 November). The RRC have condemned the government's refusal to increase Local Housing Allowance but welcomed tax changes affecting landlords and the end of the two child benefit cap.
Tom Darling, Director at the Renters' Reform Coalition, said:
"Overall, this is not a renters' budget - the continued freezing of housing benefit means tenants on low incomes will continue to struggle to keep a roof over their head while paying for the essentials. Soaring rents are a major cause of homelessness, driving renters out of their homes or into poverty, and refusing to increase housing allowance means many families will remain trapped in emergency homelessness accommodation, unable to afford to move."
"That said, many renters will benefit from other changes announced today, like the end of the two-child benefit cap, and we welcome tax changes like the mansion tax and increasing taxes on property income. It's only right that those with the broadest shoulders - which in England usually means those who own multiple properties - should bear more of the load. Landlords should be taxed at the same rate as their tenants who work to pay the rent."