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Written question asked by Lord Young of Cookham (Conservative) on Monday, 20 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 3 August 2026. It was answered by Baroness Sherlock (Labour) on Wednesday, 29 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.


Private Rented Housing: Local Housing Allowance

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the relationship between local housing allowance rates and the availability of affordable accommodation in the private rental sector.

Answer

The Local Housing Allowance (LHA) determines the maximum financial support available for renters in the private rented sector. LHA rates are not intended to meet all rents in all areas.

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions reviewed LHA at the 2025 Autumn Budget and announced that rates would be maintained at their current levels for 2026/27. A range of factors, such as rent levels and the housing markets across the country were considered against the fiscal context and the level of housing support that Government provides overall.

Renters receiving housing support who face a shortfall in meeting their rent costs can apply for a Crisis and Resilience Fund Housing Payment from local authorities in England.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL2363
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Private rented housing Local housing allowance
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk