Agenda item

Report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services.

The Sub-Committee received the report of the Director of Community & Children’s Services on the Rent Arrears During COVID-19.

The Sub-Committee was informed that the rent arrears have increased due to many tenants being furloughed, made redundant or having their working reduced hours. The current rent arrears for the City of London stand at £329,053. The Sub-Committee was assured that Officers continue to engage with residents and are offering practical support to families who are struggling.

Members were informed that at present there is a “rent holiday” for commercial tenants of the City of London due to COVID-19. A Member asked if the City of London is keeping a track on how much commercial rent it has waived so far. At this point the Chairman mentioned that this will be discussed in detail at the Grand Committee (Community and Children's Services) on Friday 24 July 2020.

The Sub-Committee was further advised that there are three scheduled eviction cases which pre-date COVID-19, however no legal sanctions are currently being taken on in cases of arrears accrued since COVID-19. Officers informed Members that the City of London applies for very few evictions in general and always works with residents to overcome any difficulties.  Eviction proceedings are only issued as a very last resort.

RESOLVED – That the Sub-Committee notes the report.