*
You are here: Home » Housing » Tenant services and participation » Information for tenants » Rent arrears

Rent arrears - having trouble paying

If you are having problems paying your rent it is very important that you seek our help and advice before the debts get too large. We can discuss a way of paying off your arrears by installment. The earlier we talk to you the sooner we can solve any problems. Make sure you:
 
  • Respond to our letters, telephone calls and visits
  • Contact your Housing Officer immediately and explain the problems you are facing
  • Keep any appointments made with us to discuss your arrears
 
To find out what happens if you do not pay your rent arrears see our paying rent website page.
 
Where can I go for help?
 
There are a number of organizations that will be able to help you if you fall into arrears with your rent.
 
First of all contact your Housing Officer at:
 
Tenant Services
Waterford House
Denmark Street
Wokingham
Tel: 0118 974 3771 / 3772
 
You can also contact:
 
Housing Benefit Office
Wokingham Borough Council
Shute End
Wokingham
Tel: 0118 974 6622 / 6711
 
Citizens Advice Bureau
Wellington House
Elms Road
Wokingham
Tel: 0118 989 0389
 
Five step plan to deal with debt
 
We have a five step plan for you to deal with your debt:
 
  1. Do not put it off, deal with it now
  2. Prioritise your debts
  3. Always let those you owe money to know that you are experiencing problems
  4. Get professional advice as soon as you realise you have problems
  5. Contact the Citizens Advice Bureau who can help with debt counselling and exploring if you are eligible for any benefits you're not yet receiving
 
A number of organisations may be asking for their money, but the most important things to pay for are your home and essential services. Non-priority debts can be reduced by spreading them over longer terms or deferring payment.  A debt counsellor will be able to help you do this:
 
Debt priorities
Priority debts
Non-priority debts
RentLoans
GasHire purchase
ElectricityMail order
Council TaxCar finance
WaterClothing
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Wokingham Borough Council, Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1BN.   
Telephone: (0118) 974 6000    Minicom: (0118) 974 6991    Email: wokinghambc@wokingham.gov.uk