I Need Help with my Housing Costs

When it comes to monthly expenditure your rent or mortgage payment is "essential" and in most cases the biggest monthly expenditure that you will have. If you find that your circumstances change and you are concerned about your ability to meet this essential cost then you should discuss the situation with someone as soon as possible.

The sooner you face the situation and do something about it the easier it will be to address.

For advice on your options please select which area of your housing costs you are needing help with.

Rent

If you are struggling to pay your rent you may qualify for help. The help available is dependent on who your landlord is.

If you are a private tenant or a tenant of Orkney Housing Association Ltd then you may be eligible for Local Housing Allowance, depending on your level of income and savings. If you are a tenant of Orkney Islands Council then depending on your level of income and savings, you might be able to obtain help with your rent payment. For example, if you are on a low income, you may still be able to get housing benefit or claim the housing costs element of Universal Credit that will meet all or part of your rent.

For information on both please select the relevant link from the 'Related Links' section of this page or contact the Benefits section at Orkney Islands Council on 01856873535 or via email.

Mortgage

If you have concerns over your ability to meet your monthly mortgage commitment then there are several options available. In the first instance you should approach your mortgage provider as soon as possible. They will then present your options to you or suggest that you contact the Orkney Citizens Advice Bureau Money Adviser.

To contact the Orkney Citizens Advice Bureau, telephone 01856875266 or you can visit their website which can be found in the 'Related Sites' section of this page.

Council Tax

If you are struggling to pay your council tax you may be eligible for assistance towards the cost of your council tax.

To find out if you are eligible or if you are looking for information regarding council tax please select the link from this page or contact the Council Tax section at Orkney Islands Council.

If you are looking for financial advice regarding debt the Orkney Citizens Advice Bureau has a money adviser who can provide valuable advice on budgeting and money management. Orkney Citizens Advice Bureau can be contacted on 01856875266 or you can visit their website which can be found in the 'Related Sites' section of this page.

Energy Costs

If you are spending more than 10% of your monthly income on heating your home, under the Scottish Government's definition, you are considered to be in fuel poverty. It is possible however, that there are measures that could be taken to upgrade the energy efficiency of your property.

For individuals living in private accommodation grant funding may be available from the Scottish Government to assist in upgrading your property. For further information on the grants that are currently available and how they are currently working in your local area please visit the Energy Efficiency Grants page, a link to which can be found in the 'Related Links' section of this page.

For individuals living in a Local Authority or Orkney Housing Association property please contact your respective landlord to see if there are any options open to you.

For clear and impartial advice call Home Energy Scotland free on 08088082282.