The  Debt Advisory Centre, reports that although many regard Christmas in on the 25th, landlords  experienced it considerably earlier in November when one in six tenants resorted to having to pay their rent using their credit card.

Times are difficult, however the Christmas spending frenzy carried on regardless which will mean that many landlords will end up paying for some tenant's festivities, when the rent is late.

The charity carried out research that also found that one in twelve people that took part, are behind with their rent or mortgage repayments.

Irrespective of their financial hardships, many people have been determined to enjoy their celebrations to the full, funding it by not paying their bills or increasing their borrowing.

Its study said that the younger generation who are between 18 and 24 years old, are the most likely to fund their housing through borrowing. One in three people said that they had already borrowed additional income to pay their mortgage or rent. Out of these two thirds were one month in arrears, one in five were two to three months behind and 14% owed more than three months mortgage repayments or rent.

Spokesman Ian Williams said: “Housing is a key priority, so it is worrying to find so many people had to borrow money in October to make their November payment. It is certainly a sign that their finances are in crisis and that they need to take action immediately to avoid further deterioration.

“In many cases, people have enough coming into make their payment but have prioritised other bills – such as credit card or loan repayments. In this case it is important to remember that housing costs should be paid before any unsecured creditors."

The charity has advisors that can help people in debt to re-prioritise their budget and at times help negotiate with lenders on their behalf.

Richard Merrick of PIMS says: "At times our members are made to feel like banks when this time is upon us. Act quickly and do not fall into the trap of appearing lenient, after all how would a lender treat you if reneged on your re-payments ?"
 

Should you be experiencing Tenants in Rent Arrear the following pages will assist you