A Universal Credit advisory event for landlords is being held by a Council for parts of Lincolnshire before the rollout takes place in November.

West Lindsey council is inviting private renting landlords and lettings agents from the City of Lincoln, North Kesteven and West Lindsey at the Alive Conference in Newland on July 15th. It promises that a number of speakers will be appearing to advise landlords on how best to be ready for the new Benefits' changes.

As widely reported all tenants on Housing Benefits, Jobseekers allowances and Tax credits will be receiving one monthly payment....in arrears, which will no doubt create headaches for the tenant used to weekly supplements, and undoubtedly have a major impact on landlords’ cash flows.

The changes to Benefits cap and Tax Credits will obviously be high on the agenda.

Richard Merrick of PIMS says: “We are aware of similar events that have been held for landlords elsewhere, but surely the Government should make it compulsory for all Councils to hold meetings with private renting landlords.....especially with the key welfare reforms.

“The long term view must be taken to help and advise landlords for the Universal Credit rollout. It is in every council's interests, as in the end it will be the council and courts picking up the tab in work force costs.”