Housing benefit when not staying there

[jadeybags]

My brother has gone to stop with mum for 3 months, without going into full detail, officials have closed his flat, with no access. He is signed off work at the moment by the doctor, which he has to produce certificates for. Guess who now is expected to collect the certificate(s) as mums isn't local to his address. (in the UK though)

Will housing benefit still be paid on his flat?

[Mr.P]

Really depends on who the "officials" that closed the flat are. If it is a council flat, and the officials are also from the council, it is possible that no rent is due. It also depends on the reasons given for the closure and what the terms and conditions of the rental agreement states about such matters.

[Shoelover]

It also depends why he is away and if he intends to return.

As long as he intends to return he can be absent for up to 13 weeks, there are some reasons for absence that mean someone can be away for up to 52 weeks.

He does need to put the council in the picture though- if it's a council flat housing may have told HB, but best to be safe

[id6052]

The primary conditions for Housing Benefit are that person: -

1) is occupying the dwelling

2) is liable to make payments (rent) in respect of the dwelling

 

Depending upon the details, there could be an issue with either of the above.

 

Best to advise HB department of details and try to clarify situation

[jadeybags]

Thanks for the advice foljs. It's a housing assosiation place & not them that's closed it for 3 months. He does intend to go back there. I guess we will have to see if that can happen.

[mikeymack2002]

There are other legal reasons for a closure of a flat, is it possible you can find out what these are so you will receive the best advice