Future LHA reductions may not be as severe as first thought, according to Settled Housing Solutions Consultancy Service.

A pioneering new piece of software developed by Settled Housing Solutions in conjunction with Destin Solutions which calculates both the current LHA rates and also forecasts future LHA rates indicates that LHA rates are rising in line with general market trends.

The software, which provides a unique LHA tracking function, has enabled landlords and letting agents currently operating in the LHA market to track the fluctuations in LHA rates within their area.

The evidence indicates that LHA rates are rising in line with market rents in general. This would indicate that fears about the potential losses due to LHA reform may not be as severe as first thought.

Jim McLaughlin, Co –Director for Settled Housing Solutions, contributed to the development of the calculator has been a practitioner in LHA and Housing Benefit legislation for over 20 years commented. “Up to now landlords and lettings agents have had to rely on their own knowledge of local markets to value their rent levels.”

Our software provides accurate and up to date facts about LHA rates both now and in the future. The value of this is enormous as it allows landlords and letting agents to protect and maximise their rental income”

Jim added, “When we have demonstrated the new software to landlords and letting agents at landlord forums, conferences and our very successful LHA Seminars, we have found that, although most of them are aware of the changes that are about to be implemented, many are unclear about which of their tenants will be affected, when they will be affected and by how much their LHA rate of entitlement will be reduced.
The fact that the Government decided to make some amendments to the original proposals to protect existing claimants, while bringing forward the date that the changes would affect new claimants has only added to the confusion”

In order to de-mystify some of these issues the software, developed in consultation with landlords and letting agents, provides the answers they need quickly at the touch of a button.

Settled Housing Solutions Consultancy Service’s clear message to landlords and letting agents who operate in the LHA market is: Don’t Panic! Obtain the facts first before making any decisions and use our software to gain a long term view.

Settled Housing Solutions LHA Manual.
Landlords and letting agents purchasing the software will also receive a copy of Settled Housing Solutions Local Housing Allowance Manual – A comprehensive guide for letting agents and landlords.
The one hundred page manual provides a wealth of information and practical guidance on making a success of LHA tenancies by guiding you, step by step, through the LHA maze.
Notes to Editors

Settled Housing Solutions Consultancy Service was formed in 2007.

We are the leading practitioners in the delivery of housing and homelessness legalisation with a strong emphasis on forming effective partnerships with the private rented sector.

For more information about Settled Housing Solutions Consultancy Service contact Alan Elborough alan@settledhousingsolutions.com Tel 0208 340 5526 Mobile 07739 405486 or visit our website www.settledhousingsolutions.com