Rent changes for 2026/27

From 6 April 2026, rents at North Star will increase by 4.8%.

We know any increase can feel difficult, especially when many households are already dealing with higher food, energy and everyday costs. This isn't a decision we take lightly. If you’re worried about paying your rent or managing your bills, please talk to us as soon as you can.

Your Housing Officer and our Welfare Benefits Team are here to help. They can check you’re receiving the benefits you’re entitled to, help you set up manageable payment plans and offer budgeting or cost-of-living advice.

These conversations are free, confidential and focused on helping you stay secure in your home.

You can call us on 03000 11 00 11 or speak to your Housing Officer.

Why are rents going up?

Each year we review rents in line with government guidance. Housing associations are allowed to increase rents by inflation plus 1%, which this year equals 4.8%.

At the same time, the cost of delivering services continues to rise. It costs more to carry out repairs, replace kitchens and heating systems, improve energy efficiency, keep homes safe and build new affordable homes.

We work hard to keep costs down and spend money carefully, but we still need enough income to maintain and improve homes for everyone.

How your rent makes a difference

North Star is a not-for-profit housing association. That means any surplus is reinvested back into homes and communities. We call this our Surplus for Purpose.

Your rent helps us keep homes safe, warm and well-maintained, improve neighbourhoods, support local communities and build new affordable homes for the future. Find out how we spend each pound (£) of rental income here: Changes to your rent 2025/26 - North Star Housing Group

What happens next?

You’ll receive a letter with your new rent amount and information about what you need to do (if anything). It will explain what happens if you receive benefits or pay by Direct Debit, standing order or PayPoint.

There is also more information on this web page, including how to correctly update your Universal Credit online account: Changes to your rent 2025/26 - North Star Housing Group

If you’re ever unsure, please contact your Housing Officer or our Customer Service team.

Housing Benefits:

We (North Star) will let Housing Benefits know about the changes, and you, as customers, do not need to.

Universal Credit:

You will need to go to your journal and update your weekly rent on the date it increases (6th April 2026), no earlier.