Local housing allowance (LHA)

How much support you receive will be calculated using a nationally agreed rate (see below) that takes into account the average cost to rent a property where you live (known as a broad rental market area).

It will also depend on how many people live with you, and how many bedrooms you are entitled to.

Rates (most of the borough)

Shared accomodation

• Category: A

• Weekly amount: £69.35

One bedroom

• Category: B

• Weekly amount: £97.81

Two bedrooms

• Category: C

• Weekly amount: £110.47

Three bedrooms

• Category: D

• Weekly amount: £136.93

Four bedrooms

• Category: E

• Weekly amount: £184.11

Rates (bordering Shropshire)

Shared accomodation

• Category: A

• Weekly amount: £85.00

One bedroom

• Category: B

• Weekly amount: £109.32

Two bedrooms

• Category: C

• Weekly amount: £136.93

Three bedrooms

• Category: D

• Weekly amount: £166.85

Four bedrooms

• Category: E

• Weekly amount: £224.38

The local housing allowance that is used to work out your benefit will depend on how many people are in your household. Allow one bedroom for:

• every adult couple (married or unmarried)

• any other adult aged 16 or over

• any two children of the same sex aged under 16

• any two children who are under ten years old

• any other child (under 16)

We do not count other rooms such as a living room, kitchen or bathroom.

Single claimants under 35 years old will be entitled to the shared accommodation rate. Single claimants over 35 years old and couples with no dependent children will be entitled to the rate for a one bedroom property.

You must notify us immediately if anyone moves in or out of your household.