Advice Column – Damp and Mould in Rented Accomodation
Damp and mould is building up in our house as the weather gets colder. Our living room is the worst and there’s a strong smell, so we’ve stopped having friends round. We’re also concerned about our health. We’ve reported it to our landlord, but they haven’t done anything. With six months left on the occupation contract, we’re running out of options. What should we do? You’ve done the right thing by bringing this to your landlord. To work out if they are responsible you’ll need to find the cause of the damp and mould, but this can take
Navigate The New Year With New Financial Resolutions
As we enter the new year, the idea of a fresh start encourages us to set goals and resolutions, often focused on achieving financial goals. Whether it's building an emergency fund, paying off debts, or improving overall financial well-being, achieving these goals in 2024 calls for a practical approach. Managing your finances can be challenging, especially in the new year. This guide is here to help you navigate your finances this year within the private rented sector. Reflect on 2023: Begin your journey by looking back on the past year. What worked well? What challenges did you face?
Consumer Awareness Week 2024
Across this week of our Consumer Awareness campaign, we’re encouraging consumers to know their rights when shopping including what to do if they run into issues after purchasing; complaints around defective goods or substandard services, and sellers failing to deliver. With the key shopping times of Christmas and the January sales just gone, we’re here to advise people on what to do if things went wrong when shopping or if something you ordered didn’t deliver, how to return faulty goods and how to shop safely and stay aware of scams. We'll be sharing some useful information throughout the week
Budgeting for the New Year: Navigating Finances in the Private Rented Sector
As we step into a new year, it's a great time to start thinking about laying down a solid budgeting plan. For those navigating the private rented sector, managing your finances can be challenging but ever so important. In this blog post, we'll explore practical tips and strategies to help you handle the challenges of budgeting and set yourself up for financial stability in 2024. Understand Your Income and Expenses: The first step in creating a budget is to have a clear understanding of your income and expenses. List all your sources of income, including your salary, and any
Advice Column: January Debts
I’ve built up a bit of debt and I am panicking. Even though I cut back, Christmas was expensive, my rent has gone up and my paycheque just doesn’t stretch as far as it used to. I’m doing everything I can but it’s not enough - what can I do? First of all it’s important to know you’re not alone in finding things difficult and, crucially, there’s support available. You say you’ve built up a bit of debt. The first step is to collect all the information you have about your debts, this might include contracts, bills and statements.
Year-End Rental Check: Essential Tips for Tenants and Landlords
As the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time for both tenants and landlords to conduct a comprehensive year-end review of their rental agreements and properties. This proactive approach can pave the way for a smooth transition into the new year and help maintain a healthy landlord-tenant relationship. Here are essential tips for both parties to consider: For Tenants: Review Your Lease Agreement: Take some time to carefully go through your lease agreement. Note any changes in terms, renewal options, or clauses that might impact your tenancy in the coming year. Document Property Condition: Conduct a
Navigating Christmas with Rent Arrears: A Guide to Financial Resilience
The festive season is meant to be a time of joy, but for those facing rent arrears, it can bring added stress and anxiety. However, there are steps you can take to navigate this challenging situation and ensure that the festive season remains a time of warmth and togetherness. In this article, we'll explore practical tips and resources to help you manage rent arrears during Christmas. Communication is Key Initiate open communication with your landlord to discuss your financial situation. Some landlords may be willing to negotiate a temporary rent reduction or agree to a realistic repayment plan. Communication
Advice Column: Winter Fuel Bills
I am a single parent with two kids and I’m really worried about how I’ll afford to pay my energy bills when I have to start putting the heating and lights on more now winter is here. At the moment I just about have enough money to cover my bills but there is nothing left over. The thought of getting into debt keeps me awake at night but the idea of my children being cold and possibly unwell as a result is just unbearable. What can I do? You are not alone - a record number of people came
Navigating Winter and Holidays: A Tenant’s Guide
As the winter chill settles in and the festive season approaches, tenants face unique challenges that require a bit of extra attention. At Citizens Advice Cardiff & Vale, we understand the importance of a warm and stress-free home during these months. Here's a guide to help you navigate the winter season and holidays as a tenant. Heating Hacks: Keeping your home warm and cosy is a top priority during winter. Ensure your heating system is in good working order by bleeding radiators and checking the boiler. If you encounter any issues, report them promptly to your landlord or property
Citizens Advice Impact Report 2022-2023
people had one-to-one advice saved for government and public services issues dealt with More people than ever need our help. Last week we published our latest Impact Report, which shows we gave 2.66 million people one-to-one advice in the 2022 to 2023 financial year. This peaked in March 2023 when we helped over 268,000 people — as high as any month in the previous 10 years. It hasn’t been easy. The start of 2023 was the bleakest start to a year we’ve ever experienced. We’ve adapted our services to keep helping as many people as possible — seeing
Navigating Rental Arrears: A Winter Guide for Landlords
As winter settles in, landlords face unique challenges in ensuring a smooth and stress-free tenancy for both themselves and their tenants. Citizens Advice Cardiff & Vale understands the importance of maintaining positive landlord-tenant relationships, especially when dealing with rental arrears. Here's a comprehensive guide to help landlords navigate these challenges during the winter months. Open Communication: The key to resolving rental arrears often begins with open communication. Reach out to your tenants early if you notice any signs of financial strain. Understanding their situation can pave the way for finding mutually beneficial solutions. Flexible Payment Plans: Consider offering flexible payment
Ofgem Visit to Citizens Advice Cardiff and Vale
Ofgem chief executive meets Welsh charities supporting people in the cost of living crisis Ofgem’s Chief Executive, Jonathan Brearley, visited South Wales on Wednesday 11 October to meet organisations supporting people who are struggling amid the ongoing cost of living crisis. During the latest in a series of fact finding visits around the UK to find out how people concerned about rising energy bills were being supported, the energy regulator’s CEO joined the team at Citizens Advice Cardiff & Vale. Mr Brearley spent time speaking to advisors to understand the challenges service
