News / Barton House
Evacuated Barton House residents told they must continue to pay rent
Residents of Barton House who were forced to leave their homes have been told they will have to continue paying rent.
400 residents were evacuated suddenly from their homes on November 14 due to “serious and immediate” structural issues with the building.
Since then the majority have been staying in the Holiday Inn, while some have been staying with family and friends. It is currently unclear when, or if, they will be able to return to their homes.
is needed now More than ever
On Monday, in a letter, Bristol City Council told residents “tenants will continue to be charged rent to maintain our contractual relationship with tenants.”
They added that if they were to stop charging rent, tenants on Universal Credit or housing benefits would see those benefits being recalculated.
Barton House resident Shaban Ali, who is also a member of ACORN Bristol, said the announcement was “a missed opportunity to lead by example and show other troublesome landlords how to deal with tenants with humanity and compassion.”
Co-leader of the Green Party Carla Denyer has urged the council to pause rent for tenants.
On Twitter, the candidate for the new Bristol Central constituency wrote: “I support this campaign for a rent pause for Barton House residents.”
“Imagine being evacuated from your home at short notice, not able to take most of your stuff with you, hotel not giving you access to basic services, and being asked to pay for the ‘privilege’ of that experience.”
The council said in a statement: “For those who are staying in the Holiday Inn, we will continue to cover the costs of accommodation and provide meals.
“In addition, for all households who have been displaced by the temporary evacuation of Barton House, we will continue to cover taxi costs for those who need them and for transport to get children to school.
“Households who are currently staying with friends and relatives are also entitled to some additional payments. This is to contribute to extra costs people may have, such as food or energy costs, up to a maximum of £50 a night. The amount payable will depend on the household composition.”
It added: “Following consideration of the impact on residents and with reference to our own policy and national guidance, tenants will continue to be charged rent to maintain our contractual relationship with tenants.
“Also, if we were to stop charging rent, any tenant of Barton House in receipt of Universal Credit and/or Housing Benefit would see those benefits needing to be recalculated.
“We recognise this approach may cause some concern for residents and recognise there may be people wanting further advice and support.
“Anyone having difficulty paying rent should speak to their Income Officer who can help identify relevant support.”
Main photo: Mia Vines Booth
Read next:
- ‘Overwhelming’ community response to Barton House crisis
- Apology for residents of Barton House
- Barton House residents refuse to leave building as police arrive
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