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UtilitiesSometimes your rent will include utilities such as water, electricity and gas. Sometimes you will need to pay for these separately. Find out exactly how you need to pay for everything and if possible include this information in the agreement that you and your landlord sign when you decide to rent a place to live. If you are paying for utilities directly to the utilities companies, they will send you bills and tell youhow to pay them, for example monthly or quarterly. These will all be in the English language. You may have a telephone in your home. This you will need to pay for separately. It will not be included in your rent. Problems with Paying Rent (Housing Benefit)You may find that you are struggling to pay your rent, as your wages are not enough. You may be entitled to assistance from the government. See this section on Housing Benefit or the section on Benefits.ProblemsIf you are experiencing problems such as damp, noise or poor maintenance, you can contact the local Environmental Health Department for advice (see Useful Contacts & Advice section).If you are having any problems connected to your accommodation contact the Citizens Advice Bureau (see Contacts & Advice Section). RubbishThe local Council will collect your rubbish. Ask you landlord to let you know where you can put your rubbish, and when it will be collected. A lot of rubbish can be recycled. Ask your landlord where and what you can recycle in your area. |