Shaun Doran writing in the Guardian a couple of weeks ago thinks so. His argument is that continuing financial pressures faced by low income families mean that many are struggling to stay on top of their living expenses, which in real terms means that the rent goes unpaid and eventually the landlord is forced to issue an eviction notice.
Tenants in receipt of benefits are often living hand to mouth. There are always stories of some families who manage to beat the system and live a very comfortable lifestyle in a Mayfair mansion, but the vast majority can barely afford to eat let alone buy furniture and white goods for their new home. Consequently, the lure of payday loans and companies such as Bright House, where instead of paying upfront for a new washing machine or sofa they can pay for the goods on a weekly rent to own basis, is a very attractive option for many families. It sounds like a good deal, but interest rates on these agreements are very high and over the course of a few months, the customer ends up paying significantly more.
What difference will furnishing a social housing property make?
Offering furnished properties can help vulnerable tenants create a decent home for their families. It also enables social landlords to reduce the likelihood of rent arrears and enjoy a regular income afforded by a long-term tenant, instead of having to deal with a tenant up to their eyeballs in debt. You don’t even have to spend a fortune on expensive furniture—there are plenty of opportunities to find good quality second hand furnishings for rented homes.
