My client is under pressure to move to a new private sector lease. She's 27 and expecting a baby in May next year.

She has asked me what sort of payment she can expect from LHA in Southwark when she moves.

I have said that there is no provision for "forthcoming births" in the LHA room requirement calculations and that she may have to take a property suitable for her and her child and swallow paying the extra rent until the child is born when a reassessment of her room requirements will be necessary.

This scenario seems markedly unfair, but have I told her the correct information?

Thanks for your attention

Dan

Your interpretation is correct. On the positive side, situations like this are tailor made for DHPs. The award is for a good reason and for a fixed, relatively short, period.

I would check with your local LA first, but this might just be the best way forward. Just make certain that the new property is in line with the increased LHA rate.