Changes to rent charges
We know times are tough at the moment. As the cost-of-living crisis continues, we’re here to help the people most in need of support. As a ‘not-for-profit’ organisation, we re-invest every penny we make into our business, so we can help more people just like you.
Changes to Rent Charges 2026/27
Important Dates:
- Rent and Service change letters to be posted to all customers from week commencing 23rd February 2026.
- For weekly rent and service charge, changes will be applied from 6th April 2026.
- For monthly rent and service charge, changes will be applied from 1st April 2026.
Useful Information:
- Full details of any changes in rent and service charge and what you need to do next, are explained in your annual rent change letter.
What do Rents pay for?
Calico Homes is a not-for-profit organisation. That means we don’t have shareholders and every penny we make is reinvested into our business and the services we provide.
The money we collect through rent and service charges pays for the services we provide and make sure your home and neighbourhood are kept safe and in
good condition. Any additional income generated will allow us to continue to invest in improvements and deliver what is most important.
We are investing £25 million of improvements in our homes and neighbourhoods over the next 5 years. We are building new affordable accommodation which will have a positive impact in the town and on our community.
What do I need to do now?
You need to start paying your new rent charges from the date your rent increases. This will be explained in the letter we send. If you’ve misplaced this letter and need a copy, contact our customer service team.
- If you pay by direct debit, you don’t need to do anything. Your payments will automatically be adjusted, and you’ll receive confirmation of this from AllPay Limited, in March 2026.
- If you manage your payments Online or by Standing Order, please adjust your payments to the new amount from the day of your increase.
- If you receive support with your rent via Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, please see our frequently asked questions below for further information.
Frequently asked questions
- How are social housing rents set?
Social rents are set by the Government using the Rent Standard 2026: Rent Standard 2026 – GOV.UK. Rent will usually be increased by a maximum of Consumer Price Index (CPI) +1%.
- What if I can’t afford the increase?
Our priority is to support you to maintain your tenancy and not to fall into rent arrears. We have a dedicated Income Management and Tenancy Sustainment team trained to help you maximise benefits and manage your money. Please take advantage of this service now to help you prepare for the rent increase.
The Tenancy Sustainment Team hold a weekly drop-in service, Wednesdays 09:30am – 11:30am at Calico Homes, Croft Street, Burnley, BB11 2ED.
Find out if you may be eligible for additional income, by completing our easy to follow Benefit Checker. Independently you can get free advice and support from your local Citizens Advice, or from StepChange if you’re struggling with debts.
For further support, look on our website or alternatively, call 01282 686 300 or email moneywise@calico.org.uk.
- What does a ‘Section 13 notice’ mean?
When a tenancy agreement does not have terms and conditions for rental charges, and your rent is increasing, you’ll be sent a Section 13 notice along with your letter. This letter confirms your rent and right of appeal to via an independent tribunal.
If you wish to appeal, you must do so prior to the rent increase on 6th April 2026 for weekly rent charge and 1st April 2026 for monthly rent charge.
The Tribunal’s official name is First-Tier Tribunal or the Upper Tribunal. They are an independent body with legal powers to settle disputes, including rent. It’s completely unconnected to the landlord, the resident, or any other public agency. If you want to appeal, you must do so with the correct method, which is explained in the Section 13 notice, the Tribunal will look at the rent dispute. Sometimes people also get referred to the Tribunal.
You can contact any Tribunal office in writing, by telephone, via email, or you can visit their office (please check opening times). These offices are regional. Visit the GOV.UK website to find full details of the regional office that covers your area.
- Do I need to notify my local council or DWP about the rent change?
If you currently receive Housing Benefit and it’s paid directly to us, we have already told your Local Authority about your new rent and charges – Calico Homes will do this on your behalf.
If it’s paid directly to you, you’ll need to let your Local Authority know so they can recalculate your award.
If you receive help for housing costs via Universal Credit, you must notify the DWP about your rent change on the date of your rent increase (i.e. 6th April 2026 for weekly rent charge and 1st April 2026 for monthly rent charge). Please use the ‘confirm your housing costs’ form, which will appear as a ‘to-do’ on your online journal from 6th April 2026 for weekly rent charge or 1st April 2026 for monthly rent charge. Please do not update your rent charges until the effective date.
- Why is my rent different from my neighbours?
We cannot discuss your neighbour’s tenancy with you directly, differences occur for many reasons, including your tenancy type or the rental history of your home.
- What are service charges?
You pay both rent and service charges. Rent is the payment made to use for the management and maintenance of your home. A service charge is a payment made by you towards the cost of providing and maintaining services beyond what is covered by your rent, such as caretaking services or the upkeep of communal areas. The grounds maintenance service is delivered to you by Calico’s Clean and Green Team.