The Universal Credit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016

Regulation 27(2)

SCHEDULE 4 N.I. Housing costs element for renters

PART I N.I. General

Definition of renter N.I.

1.—(1) This Schedule contains provisions about claimants to whom regulation 27(2) applies.

(2) Claimants who fall within sub-paragraph (1) are referred to in this Schedule as “renters” (and references to “joint renters” are to joint claimants to whom regulation 27(2) applies).

Interpretation N.I.

2.  In this Schedule—

[F1 “domestic violence” has the meaning given by regulation 96(5);]

“exempt accommodation” has the meaning given in paragraph 1 of Schedule 1;

“extended benefit unit” has the meaning given in paragraph 8;

“housing cost contribution” has the meaning given in paragraph 12;

“the Housing Executive” means the Northern Ireland Housing Executive;

“joint renter” has the meaning given in paragraph 1(2);

“listed persons”, in relation to a renter, means—

(a)

the renter,

(b)

where the renter is a member of a couple, the other member of the couple, and

(c)

any child or qualifying young person for whom the renter (or either joint renter) is responsible;

“member of the armed forces” means a member of the regular forces or the reserve forces within the meaning of section 374 of the Armed Forces Act 2006 M1 ;

“non-dependant” has the meaning given in paragraph 8(2);

“provider of social housing” means—

(a)

the Housing Executive; or

(b)

a registered housing association;

“the UC Housing Costs Regulations” means the Universal Credit Housing Costs (Executive Determinations) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 M2 ;

“registered housing association” means a housing association which is registered in a register maintained under Article 14 of the Housing (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 M3 ;

[F2 “relative” has the meaning given by Article 2(2) of the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998;]

“relevant payments” has the meaning given in paragraph 3;

“renter” means a single renter within the meaning of paragraph 1(2) or each of joint renters;

“renter who requires overnight care” is to be understood in accordance with paragraph 11(3) to (5);

“shared accommodation” has the meaning given in paragraph 26.

Textual Amendments

F1 Words in Sch. 4 para. 2 inserted (1.10.2022) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Victims of Domestic Abuse and Victims of Modern Slavery) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 (S.R. 2022/211), regs. 1(1), 3(2)(a)

F2 Words in Sch. 4 para. 2 inserted (1.10.2022) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Victims of Domestic Abuse and Victims of Modern Slavery) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 (S.R. 2022/211), regs. 1(1), 3(2)(b)

Marginal Citations

M1 2006 c.52.

M2 S.R. 2016 No. 222.

M3 S.I. 1992/1725 (N.I. 15).

“Relevant payments” for purposes of this Schedule N.I.

3.—(1) “ Relevant payments” means one or more payments of any of the following descriptions—

(a) rent payments, and

(b) service charge payments.

(2) “Rent payments” in relation to any calculation under Part 4 or 5 of this Schedule, has the meaning given in paragraph 2 of Schedule 1.

(3) “Service charge payments”—

(a) for the purposes of calculations under Part 4 of this Schedule, has the meaning given in paragraph 8 of Schedule 1, and

(b) for the purposes of calculations under Part 5 of this Schedule, is to be understood in accordance with paragraphs 8 and 9 of Schedule 1.

PART 2 N.I. [F3 Exception] to inclusion of housing costs element

Textual Amendments

F3 Word in Sch. 4 Pt. 2 heading substituted (31.12.2018) by The Universal Credit and Jobseekers Allowance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/187), regs. 1(3), 3(8)(a)

No housing costs element for 16 or 17 year old care leavers N.I.

4.  Article 16(1) of the Order (housing costs) does not apply to any renter who is 16 or 17 years old and is a care leaver.

No housing costs element for certain renters aged at least 18 but under 22 N.I.

F4 4A.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F4 Sch. 4 paras. 4A-4C omitted (31.12.2018) by virtue of The Universal Credit and Jobseekers Allowance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/187), regs. 1(3), 3(8)(b)

Persons to whom paragraph 4A does not apply - general N.I.

F4 4B.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F4 Sch. 4 paras. 4A-4C omitted (31.12.2018) by virtue of The Universal Credit and Jobseekers Allowance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/187), regs. 1(3), 3(8)(b)

Persons to whom paragraph 4A does not apply – periods of work N.I.

F4 4C.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F4 Sch. 4 paras. 4A-4C omitted (31.12.2018) by virtue of The Universal Credit and Jobseekers Allowance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/187), regs. 1(3), 3(8)(b)

PART 3 N.I. General provisions about calculation of amount of housing costs element for renters

Relevant payments to be taken into account N.I.

5.—(1) Where a renter meets the payment condition, liability condition and occupation condition in respect of one or more descriptions of relevant payment, each such description is to be taken into account for the purposes of the calculation under Part 4 or 5 of this Schedule.

(2) No account is to be taken of any amount of a relevant payment to the extent that all of the conditions referred to in sub-paragraph (1) are not met in respect of that amount.

(3) Any particular payment for which a renter is liable is not to be brought into account more than once whether in relation to the same or a different renter (but this does not prevent different payments of the same description being brought into account in respect of an assessment period).

Relevant payments calculated monthly N.I.

6.—(1) Where any relevant payment is to be taken into account under paragraph 5, the amount of that payment is to be calculated as a monthly amount.

(2) Where the period in respect of which a renter is liable to make a relevant payment is not a month, an amount is to be calculated as the monthly equivalent, so for example—

(a) weekly payments are multiplied by 52 and divided by 12,

(b) two-weekly payments are multiplied by 26 and divided by 12,

(c) four-weekly payments are multiplied by 13 and divided by 12,

(d) three-monthly payments are multiplied by 4 and divided by 12, and

(e) annual payments are divided by 12.

(3) Where a renter is liable for relevant payments under arrangements that provide for one or more rent free periods, subject to paragraph (4) the monthly equivalent is to be calculated over 12 months by reference to the total number of relevant payments which the renter is liable to make in that 12 month period.

(4) Where sub-paragraph (3) applies and the relevant payments in question are-

(a) weekly payments, the total number of weekly payments which the renter is liable to make in any 12 month period shall be calculated by reference to the formula—

(b) two-weekly payments, the total number of two-weekly payments which the renter is liable to make in any 12 month period shall be calculated by reference to the formula—

(c) four-weekly payments, the total of four-weekly payments which the renter is liable to make in any 12 month period shall be calculated by reference to the formula—

Where “RFP” is the number of rent free periods in the 12 month period in question.

(5) “Rent free period” means any period in respect of which the renter has no liability to make one or more of the relevant payments which are to be taken into account under paragraph 5.

Room allocation N.I.

Size criteria applicable to the extended benefit unit of all renters N.I.

7.—(1) In calculating the amount of the renter's housing costs element under Part 4 or 5 of this Schedule, a determination is to be made in accordance with the provisions referred to in sub-paragraph (2) as to the category of accommodation which it is reasonable for the renter to occupy, having regard to the number of persons who are members of the renter's extended benefit unit (see paragraph 8).

(2) The provisions referred to in this sub-paragraph are the following provisions of this Schedule—

(a) in respect of a calculation under Part 4, paragraphs 8 to 11 and 25 to 28;

(b) in respect of a calculation under Part 5, paragraphs 8 to 11.

Extended benefit unit of a renter for purposes of this Schedule N.I.

8.—(1) For the purposes of this Schedule, the members of a renter's extended benefit unit are—

(a) the renter (or joint renters),

(b) any child or qualifying young person for whom the renter or either joint renter is responsible, and

(c) any person who is a non-dependant.

(2) A person is a non-dependant if the person normally lives in the accommodation with the renter (or joint renters) and is none of the following—

(a) a person within sub-paragraph (1)(a) or (b);

(b) where the renter is a member of a couple claiming as a single person, the other member of the couple;

(c) a foster child;

(d) a person who is liable to make payments on a commercial basis in respect of the person's occupation of the accommodation (whether to the renter, joint renters or another person);

(e) a person to whom the liability to make relevant payments is owed or a member of their household;

(f) a person who has already been treated as a non-dependant in relation to a claim for universal credit by another person liable to make relevant payments in respect of the accommodation occupied by the renter;

(g) a child or qualifying young person for whom no-one in the renter's extended benefit unit is responsible.

(3) “Foster child” means a child in relation to whom the renter (or either joint renter) is a foster parent.

Number of bedrooms to which a renter is entitled N.I.

9.—(1) A renter is entitled to one bedroom for each of the following categories of persons in their extended benefit unit—

(a) the renter (or joint renters);

(b) a qualifying young person for whom the renter or either joint renter is responsible;

(c) a non-dependant who is not a child;

(d) two children who are under 10 years old;

(e) two children of the same sex;

(f) any other child.

(2) A member of the extended benefit unit to whom two or more of the descriptions in sub-paragraph (1) apply is to be allotted to whichever description results in the renter being entitled to the fewest bedrooms.

(3) In determining the number of bedrooms to which a renter is entitled, the following must also be taken into account—

(a) the provisions of paragraph 10 as to treatment of periods of temporary absence of members of the renter's extended benefit unit;

(b) any entitlement to an additional bedroom in accordance with paragraph 11;

(c) for the purpose of any calculation under Part 4 of this Schedule, the additional requirement in paragraphs 25 to 28.

Temporary absence of member of renter's extended benefit unit N.I.

10.—(1) A member of the renter's extended benefit unit who is temporarily absent from the accommodation occupied by the renter is to be included in a determination of the number of bedrooms to which the renter is entitled (“relevant determination”) in the circumstances specified in sub-paragraphs (2) to (4).

(2) In the case of a child or qualifying young person the circumstances specified in this sub-paragraph are that the relevant determination relates to any time—

(a) during the first 6 months of the absence of a child or qualifying young person for whom the renter is treated as not being responsible in accordance with regulation 4(6)(a) (child or qualifying young person looked after by an authority) where, immediately before the authority started looking after them, the child or qualifying young person was included in the renter's extended benefit unit and the renter's award included the housing costs element,

(b) during the first 6 months of the absence of a child or qualifying young person for whom the renter is treated as not being responsible in accordance with regulation 4(6)(b) (child or qualifying young person is a prisoner) where—

(i) immediately before becoming a prisoner, the child or qualifying young person was included in the renter's extended benefit unit and the renter's award included the housing costs element, and

(ii) the child or qualifying young person has not been sentenced to a term in custody that is expected to extend beyond that 6 months, or

(c) before the renter or joint renter ceases to be responsible for a temporarily absent child or qualifying young person in accordance with regulation 4(7) (absence exceeding specified duration).

(3) In the case of a renter, the circumstances specified in this sub-paragraph are that the relevant determination relates to any time when—

(a) the temporary absence from Northern Ireland of the renter is disregarded in accordance with regulation 11(1) or (2) (temporary absence from Northern Ireland), or

(b) the renter is a prisoner to whom regulation 19(2) (existing award includes housing costs when person becomes a prisoner) applies.

(4) In the case of a non-dependant, the circumstances specified in this sub-paragraph are that—

(a) the relevant determination relates to any time during a period specified in sub-paragraph (5),

(b) immediately before the start of that period, the non-dependant was included in the renter's extended benefit unit and, in the circumstances specified in sub-paragraph (5)(a) to (c), the renter's award included the housing costs element.

(5) The specified periods are—

(a) the first month of the non-dependant's temporary absence from Northern Ireland and, if the circumstances of the non-dependant are such as would be disregarded for the purposes of regulation 11(2) (death of a close relative), a further one month;

(b) the first 6 months of the non-dependant's temporary absence from Northern Ireland in the circumstances described in regulation 11(3)(a) (absence solely in connection with treatment for illness or physical or mental impairment);

(c) the first 6 months that the non-dependant is a prisoner where the non-dependant has not been sentenced to a term in custody that is expected to extend beyond that 6 months;

(d) any period during which a non-dependant who is the son, daughter, step-son or step-daughter of a renter or joint renters is a member of the armed forces away on operations.

(6) Any non-dependant who is temporarily absent from the accommodation occupied by the renter in circumstances other than those specified in sub-paragraphs (4) and (5) is not to be treated as being a member of the renter's extended benefit unit if that absence exceeds, or is expected to exceed, 6 months.

Additional room N.I.

11.— [F5 (A1) A renter is entitled to an additional bedroom if one or more of the following persons satisfies the overnight care condition (see sub-paragraph (3))—

(a) the renter;

(b) a person in the renter’s extended benefit unit;

(c) a child in respect of whom the renter satisfies the foster parent condition (see sub-paragraphs (4) and (5)).]

(1) A renter is entitled to an additional bedroom if they satisfy any of the following conditions—

F6 (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(b) the foster parent condition F7 ...; F8 ...

(c) the disabled child condition (see sub-paragraph (6)); [F9 or]

[F10 (d) the disabled person condition (see sub-paragraph (6A)).]

[F11 (2) Sub-paragraphs (A1) and (1) apply subject to sub-paragraphs (8) and (9).]

(3) [F12 A person satisfies] the overnight care condition if—

(a) they are in receipt of—

(i) the care component of disability living allowance at the middle or highest rate;

[F13 (ia) the care component of child disability payment at the middle or highest rate in accordance with regulation 11(5) of the DACYP Regulations;]

(ii) attendance allowance; F14 ...

(iii) the daily living component of personal independence payment;

[F15 or

(iv) the daily living component of adult disability payment at the standard or enhanced rate]

(b) one or more persons who do not live in the renter's accommodation are engaged to provide overnight [F16 care for the person] and to stay overnight in the accommodation on a regular basis; and

(c) overnight care is provided under arrangements entered into for that purpose.

(4) A renter satisfies the foster parent condition if the renter is—

(a) a foster parent; or

(b) an adopter with whom a child has been placed for adoption.

(5) For the purposes of sub-paragraph (4) “foster parent” includes a person who would be a foster parent, but for the fact that they do not currently have any child placed with them, provided that any period since the date when their last placement ended (or, if they have not yet had a child placed with them, since the date when they were approved to be a foster parent) does not exceed 12 months.

(6) A renter satisfies the disabled child condition if they or another member of their extended benefit unit are responsible for a child who would (but for the provisions of this paragraph) be expected to share a bedroom and that child is—

(a) in receipt of the care component of disability living allowance at the middle or highest rate; and

[F17 (aa) in receipt of the care component of child disability payment at the middle or highest rate in accordance with regulation 11(5) of the DACYP Regulations;]

(b) by virtue of their disability, not reasonably able to share a room with another child.

[F18 (6A) A renter satisfies the disabled person condition if they would (but for the provisions of this paragraph) be expected to share a bedroom with a joint renter and—

(a) the renter is in receipt of—

(i) the care component of disability living allowance at the middle or highest rate;

[F19 (ia) the care component of child disability payment at the middle or highest rate in accordance with regulation 11(5) of the DACYP Regulations;]

(ii) attendance allowance at the higher rate;

(iii) the daily living component of personal independence payment; F20 ...

[F21 (iv) the daily living component of adult disability payment at the standard or enhanced rate; and]

(b) the renter is, by virtue of their disability, not reasonably able to share a bedroom with the joint renter.]

F22 (7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(8) Where a renter, or one or both of joint renters, satisfy the disabled child condition in relation to one or more children, they are entitled to as many additional bedrooms as are necessary to ensure that each such child has their own bedroom.

[F23 (9) The renter is, or joint renters are, entitled to one additional bedroom for each of the following that apply—

(a) one or more persons satisfy the overnight care condition;

(b) the renter, or one or both of joint renters, satisfies the foster parent condition;

(c) the renter, or one or both of joint renters, satisfies the disabled child condition; or

(d) the renter, or one or both of joint renters, satisfies the disabled person condition.]

Textual Amendments

F5 Sch. 4 para. 11(A1) inserted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(a)

F6 Sch. 4 para. 11(1)(a) omitted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by virtue of The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(b)(i)

F7 Words in Sch. 4 para. 11(1)(b) omitted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by virtue of The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(b)(ii)

F8 Word in Sch. 4 para. 11(1)(b) omitted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by virtue of The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(b)(iii)

F9 Word in Sch. 4 para. 11(1)(c) inserted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(b)(iv)

F10 Sch. 4 para. 11(1)(d) inserted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(b)(v)

F11 Sch. 4 para. 11(2) substituted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(c)

F12 Words in Sch. 4 para. 11(3) substituted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(d)(i)

F13 Sch. 4 para. 11(3)(a)(ia) inserted (26.7.2021) by The Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (Disability Assistance for Children and Young People) (Consequential Modifications) Order 2021 (S.I. 2021/786), art. 1(2), Sch. 12 para. 8(2)(a)

F14 Word in Sch. 4 para. 11(3)(a)(ii) omitted (21.3.2022) by virtue of The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(a)(i)

F15 Sch. 4 para. 11(3)(a)(iv) and word inserted (21.3.2022) by The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(a)(ii)

F16 Words in Sch. 4 para. 11(3)(b) substituted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(d)(ii)

F17 Sch. 4 para. 11(6)(aa) inserted (26.7.2021) by The Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (Disability Assistance for Children and Young People) (Consequential Modifications) Order 2021 (S.I. 2021/786), art. 1(2), Sch. 12 para. 8(2)(b)

F18 Sch. 4 para. 11(6A) inserted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(e)

F19 Sch. 4 para. 11(6A)(a)(ia) inserted (26.7.2021) by The Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (Disability Assistance for Children and Young People) (Consequential Modifications) Order 2021 (S.I. 2021/786), art. 1(2), Sch. 12 para. 8(2)(c)

F20 Word in Sch. 4 para. 11(6A)(a)(iii) omitted (21.3.2022) by virtue of The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(b)(i)

F21 Sch. 4 para. 11(6A)(a)(iv) inserted (21.3.2022) by The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(b)(ii)

F22 Sch. 4 para. 11(7) omitted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by virtue of The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(f)

F23 Sch. 4 para. 11(9) substituted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Size Criteria) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/70), regs. 1(3), 4(g)

Housing cost contributions N.I.

Housing cost contributions N.I.

12.—(1) In calculating the amount of the housing costs element under Part 4 or 5 of this Schedule, a deduction is to be made in respect of each non-dependant who is a member of the renter's extended benefit unit.

(2) Sub-paragraph (1) is subject to paragraphs 14 and 15.

(3) Any amount to be deducted under sub-paragraph (1) is referred to in this Schedule as a “housing cost contribution”.

Amount of housing cost contributions N.I.

13.—(1) The amount of each housing cost contribution to be deducted under paragraph 12 is [F24 £85.73]

(2) Deductions are not to be made until the amount has been determined which results from all other steps in the calculation required in relation to the renter under Parts 4 and 5 of this Schedule.

(3) Where the sum of all the housing cost contributions to be deducted in the renter's case exceeds the amount referred to in sub-paragraph (2)—

(a) the amount determined under this Schedule is to be reduced to nil; but

(b) no further reduction in respect of housing cost contributions is to be made from the renter's award.

Textual Amendments

F24 Sum in Sch. 4 para. 13(1) substituted (27.9.2023) by The Social Security Benefits Up-rating (No. 2) Order (Northern Ireland) 2023 (S.R. 2023/143), arts. 1, 32(3), 33

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 Sum in Sch. 4 para. 13(3)(a) substituted (24.3.2018) by The Social Security (2017 Benefits Up-rating) Order (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/56), arts. 1, 27(3)(b)

Exempt renters N.I.

14.—(1) No deduction is to be made under paragraph 12 in the case of—

(a) any renter who is a single person to whom sub-paragraph (2) applies; or

(b) any joint renter where at least one joint renter is a person to whom sub-paragraph (2) applies.

(2) This sub-paragraph applies to a person—

(a) who is blind;

(b) in receipt of the care component of disability living allowance at the middle or highest rate;

[F25 (ba) in receipt of the care component of child disability payment at the middle or highest rate in accordance with regulation 11(5) of the DACYP Regulations;]

(c) in receipt of attendance allowance;

(d) in receipt of the daily living component of a personal independence payment;

[F26 (da) a person in receipt of the daily living component of adult disability payment at the standard or enhanced rate;]

(e) who is entitled to a payment within paragraph (b), (c) [F27 , (d) or (da)] but is not receiving it under, as the case may be—

(i) regulation 8 of the Social Security (Disability Living Allowance) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1992 M4 ,

(ii) regulation 6 of the Social Security (Attendance Allowance) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1992 M5 ,

(iii) regulation 19 of the Social Security (General Benefit) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1984 M6 , F28 ...

(iv) regulations under Article 91 of the Order (hospital in-patients).

[F29 or

(v) regulation 28 (effect of admission to hospital on ongoing entitlement to Adult Disability Payment) of the Disability Assistance for Working Age People (Scotland) Regulations 2022]

Textual Amendments

F25 Sch. 4 para. 14(2)(ba) inserted (26.7.2021) by The Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (Disability Assistance for Children and Young People) (Consequential Modifications) Order 2021 (S.I. 2021/786), art. 1(2), Sch. 12 para. 8(3)

F26 Sch. 4 para. 14(2)(da) inserted (21.3.2022) by The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(c)

F27 Words in Sch. 4 para. 14(2)(e) substituted (21.3.2022) by The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(d)(i)

F28 Word in Sch. 4 para. 14(2)(e)(iii) omitted (21.3.2022) by virtue of The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(d)(ii)

F29 Sch. 4 para. 14(2)(e)(v) and word inserted (21.3.2022) by The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(d)(iii)

Marginal Citations

M4 SR. 1992 No. 32; regulation 8 was amended by regulation 3(2) of S.R. 1992 No. 481, regulation 4(2) of S.R. 1999 No. 221 and regulation 3(2) of S.R. 2000 No. 195.

M5 S.R. 1992 No. 20; regulation 6 was amended by regulation 2(2) of S.R. 1992 No. 481, regulation 3 of S.R. 1999 No. 221 and regulation 2(3) of S.R. 2000 No. 195.

M6 S.R. 1984 No. 92.

No deduction for housing cost contributions in respect of certain non-dependants N.I.

15.—(1) No deduction is to be made under paragraph 12 in respect of any non-dependant who is a member of the renter's extended benefit unit to whom sub-paragraph (2) applies.

(2) This sub-paragraph applies to a person—

(a) who is under 21 years old;

(b) in receipt of state pension credit;

(c) in receipt of the care component of disability living allowance at the middle or highest rate;

(d) in receipt of attendance allowance;

(e) in receipt of the daily living component of personal independence payment;

[F30 (ea) a person in receipt of the daily living component of adult disability payment at the standard or enhanced rate;]

(f) who is entitled to a payment within paragraph (c), (d) [F31 , (e) or (ea)] but is not receiving it under, as the case may be—

(i) regulation 8 of the Social Security (Disability Living Allowance) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1992,

(ii) regulation 6 of the Social Security (Attendance Allowance) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1992,

(iii) regulation 19 of [F32 the Social Security (General Benefit) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1984], F33 ...

(iv) regulations under Article 91 of the Order;

[F34 or

(v) regulation 28 (effect of admission to hospital on ongoing entitlement to Adult Disability Payment) of the Disability Assistance for Working Age People (Scotland) Regulations 2022]

(g) in receipt of carer's allowance;

[F35 (ga) in receipt of carer support payment;]

(h) is a prisoner;

(i) is responsible for a child under 5 years old;

(j) is a member of the armed forces away on operations who—

(i) is the son, daughter, step-son or step-daughter of a renter or joint renters, and

(ii) resided with the renter or joint renters immediately before leaving to go on operations and intends to return to reside with the renter or joint renters at the end of the operations.

Textual Amendments

F30 Sch. 4 para. 15(2)(ea) inserted (21.3.2022) by The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(e)

F31 Words in Sch. 4 para. 15(2)(f) substituted (21.3.2022) by The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(f)(i)

F32 Words in Sch. 4 para. 15(2)(f)(iii) substituted (coming into force in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending Rule) by virtue of The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017 (S.R. 2017/116), regs. 1(3), 9(17)

F33 Word in Sch. 4 para. 15(2)(f) omitted (21.3.2022) by virtue of The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(f)(ii)

F34 Sch. 4 para. 15(2)(f)(v) and word inserted (21.3.2022) by The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(f)(iii)

F35 Sch. 4 para. 15(2)(ga) inserted (19.11.2023) by The Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023 (Consequential Amendments) Order 2023 (S.I. 2023/1218), arts. 1(2), 51(8)

Calculation involving more than one accommodation N.I.

Single calculation for renter treated as occupying single accommodation N.I.

16.—(1) This paragraph applies to any renter where, under paragraph 3, of Schedule 3 (claimant housed in two dwellings by provider of social housing), two dwellings (“ accommodation A” and “accommodation B”) occupied by a renter are treated as the single accommodation in respect of which the renter meets the occupation condition.

(2) The amount of the renter's housing costs element is to be determined by a single calculation in respect of accommodation A and accommodation B as if they were one, taking account of—

(a) all relevant payments in respect of accommodation A and all relevant payments in respect of accommodation B, and

(b) the total number of bedrooms in accommodation A and accommodation B taken together.

[F36 (3) The single calculation is to be made under Part 5 of this Schedule in any case where the renter’s liability to make rent payments in respect of accommodation A and accommodation B is to a provider of social housing.]

(4) In any other case, the single calculation is to be made under Part 4 of this Schedule.

Textual Amendments

F36 Sch. 4 para. 16(3) substituted (8.5.2018) by The Universal Credit (Persons Required to Provide Information, Miscellaneous Amendments and Saving and Transitional Provision) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/92), regs. 1(2), 6(19)(b) (with reg. 10(1))

Calculation where move to new accommodation delayed for adaptations for disabled person N.I.

17.—(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies to any renter where, under paragraph 4 of Schedule 3 (moving home: adaptations to new home for disabled persons), the renter meets the occupation condition in respect of both the new accommodation and the old accommodation.

(2) The amount of the renter's housing costs element under this Schedule is to be calculated as follows.

Step 1

Calculate an amount in accordance with Part 4 or Part 5 of this Schedule (as the case may be) in respect of both—

(a) the new accommodation, and

(b) the old accommodation.

Step 2

Add together the amounts determined in step 1.

Step 3

If a deduction was made for housing cost contributions in respect of both the new accommodation and the old accommodation, take the amount of the housing cost contributions deducted in respect of the new accommodation and add that to the amount resulting from step 2.

(3) In this paragraph, references to “the new accommodation” and “the old accommodation” are to be understood in accordance with paragraph 4 of Schedule 3.

Calculation where renter moves out because of reasonable fear of violence N.I.

18.—(1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies to any renter where, under paragraph 5(2) of Schedule 3, (claimant living in other accommodation because of reasonable fear of violence), the renter meets the occupation condition in respect of both the home accommodation and the other accommodation.

(2) The amount of the renter's housing costs element under this Schedule is to be calculated as follows.

Step 1

Calculate an amount in accordance with Part 4 or Part 5 of this Schedule (as the case may be) in respect of—

(a) the home accommodation, and

(b) the other accommodation.

Step 2

Add together the amounts determined in step 1.

Step 3

If a deduction was made for housing cost contributions in respect of both the home accommodation and the other accommodation—

(c) determine which accommodation the renter normally occupies as their home, and

(d) take the amount of the housing cost contributions deducted in respect of the accommodation not so occupied and add that to the amount resulting from step 2.

(3) In this paragraph, references to “the home accommodation” and “the other accommodation” are to be understood in accordance with paragraph 5 of Schedule 3.

PART 4 N.I. Private rented sector F37 ...

Textual Amendments

F37 Words in Sch. 4 Pt. 4 heading omitted (8.5.2018) by virtue of The Universal Credit (Persons Required to Provide Information, Miscellaneous Amendments and Saving and Transitional Provision) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/92), regs. 1(2), 6(19)(c) (with reg. 10(1))

Application of Part 4 N.I.

19.— [F38 (1) This Part applies to renters who are liable to make rent payments to a person other than a provider of social housing.]

(2) Sub-paragraph (1) applies irrespective of whether renters are also liable to make service charge payments.

Textual Amendments

F38 Sch. 4 para. 19(1) substituted (8.5.2018) by The Universal Credit (Persons Required to Provide Information, Miscellaneous Amendments and Saving and Transitional Provision) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/92), regs. 1(2), 6(19)(d) (with reg. 10(1))

Meaning of “temporary accommodation” N.I.

F39 20.  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F39 Sch. 4 para. 20 omitted (8.5.2018) by virtue of The Universal Credit (Persons Required to Provide Information, Miscellaneous Amendments and Saving and Transitional Provision) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/92), regs. 1(2), 6(19)(e) (with reg. 10(1))

The calculation of the housing costs element under this Part N.I.

The amount of housing costs element under this Part N.I.

21.  The amount of the renter's housing costs element under this Part is to be calculated as follows.

Step 1

Determine—

(a) the amount of the renter's core rent, and

(b) the amount of the renter's cap rent,

and identify which is the lower amount (if both amounts are the same, that is the identified amount).

Step 2

Deduct the sum of the housing cost contributions (if any) under paragraph 12 from the amount identified in step 1.

The result is the amount of the renter's housing costs element calculated under this Part.

Core rent N.I.

22.  Except where paragraph 23 applies, the renter's core rent is to be determined as follows—

Step 1

Determine the amount of each relevant payment to be taken into account under paragraph 5.

Step 2

Determine the period in respect of which each relevant payment is payable and, in accordance with paragraph 6, determine the amount of the payment in respect of a month.

Step 3

If there is more than one relevant payment, add together the amounts determined in step 2 in relation to all relevant payments.

The result is the renter's core rent.

Core rent for joint tenants N.I.

23.—(1) This paragraph applies where, in respect of the accommodation occupied by the renter, one or more persons other than the renter are liable to make relevant payments which are of the same description as those for which the renter is liable and which are to be taken into account under paragraph 5.

(2) The following steps are to be taken in order to determine the renter's core rent.

Step 1

Determine the total of all relevant payments referred to in sub-paragraph (1) for which the renter and others are liable in respect of the accommodation taken as a whole.

Step 2

Determine the period in respect of which each relevant payment is payable and, in accordance with paragraph 6, determine the amount of the payment in respect of a month.

Step 3

Add together all of the amounts determined in step 2 in relation to all relevant payments.

Step 4

Find the allocated amount in accordance with whichever of sub-paragraphs (3) to (5) applies in the renter's case.

The result is the renter's core rent.

(3) Where the only persons liable to make relevant payments are listed persons, the allocated amount is the amount resulting from step 3 in sub-paragraph (2).

(4) Where the persons liable for the relevant payments are one or more listed persons and one or more other persons, the allocated amount is to be found by applying the formula—

where—

“A” is the amount resulting from step 3 in sub-paragraph (2),

“B” is the total number of all persons (including listed persons) liable to make the relevant payments, and

“C” is the number of listed persons liable to make relevant payments.

(5) If the Department is satisfied that it would be unreasonable to allocate the amount resulting from step 3 in sub-paragraph (2) in accordance with sub-paragraph (4), that amount is to be allocated in such manner as it considers appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard (among other things) to the number of persons liable and the proportion of the relevant payments for which each of them is liable.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C2 Sum in Sch. 4 para. 23(4) specified (24.3.2018) by The Social Security (2017 Benefits Up-rating) Order (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/56), arts. 1, 27(4), Sch. 17

Cap rent N.I.

24.—(1) The renter's cap rent is to be determined as follows.

Step 1

Determine the category of accommodation to which the renter is entitled under paragraphs 7 to 11 and paragraphs 25 to 28.

Step 2

Having regard to the determination at step 1, determine the maximum allowable amount for the renter under sub-paragraph (2) or (4) (as the case may be).

The result is the renter's cap rent.

(2) The maximum allowable amount to be used in relation to the renter is the local housing allowance which applies at the relevant time to—

(a) the broad rental market area in which the renter's accommodation is situated, and

(b) the category of accommodation determined at step 1 as that to which the renter is entitled.

(3) The maximum allowable amount in relation to the renter is to be determined under sub-paragraph (4) in any case where—

(a) paragraph 3 (claimant housed in two dwellings by provider of social housing) of Schedule 3 applies to the renter, and

(b) the maximum allowable amount determined under sub-paragraph (2) for the renter in relation to accommodation A and the amount so determined in relation to accommodation B are different (references to accommodation A and accommodation B are to be understood in accordance with paragraph 3 of Schedule 3), and

(c) a single calculation is to be made in relation to the renter under paragraph 16 (renter treated as occupying single accommodation).

(4) In any such case, the maximum allowable amount to be used in making the single calculation required by paragraph 16—

(a) is to be determined by reference to the accommodation for which the amount referred to in sub-paragraph (3)(b) is lower when the calculation is first made, and

(b) is to continue to be determined by reference to that accommodation for so long as paragraph 3 of Schedule 3 applies to the renter in respect of the same accommodation A and the same accommodation B, and

(c) is to be re-determined in accordance with paragraphs (a) and (b) on each occasion when the renter is re-housed in any other accommodation, provided that paragraph 3 of Schedule 3 continues to apply to the renter.

(5) In this paragraph—

“broad rental market area” means the broad rental market area to be determined under regulation 3 of the UC Housing Costs Regulations;

“local housing allowance” in relation to a broad rental market area, means the amount to be determined by a rent officer for that area under regulation 4 of the UC Housing Costs Regulations;

“relevant time” means the time at which the amount of the renter's housing costs element is calculated under paragraph 21.

Further provisions about size criteria for cases to which this Part applies N.I.

Four bedroom limit N.I.

25.  In calculating the amount of a renter's housing costs element under paragraph 21, no renter is entitled to more than 4 bedrooms.

Specified renters entitled to shared accommodation only N.I.

26.—(1) In calculating the amount of a renter's housing costs element under paragraph 21, any specified renter (within the meaning of paragraph 27) is entitled to shared accommodation only.

(2) “Shared accommodation” means the category of accommodation specified in paragraph 1(a) of Schedule 1 to the UC Housing Costs Regulations.

Meaning of “specified renters” N.I.

27.—(1) For the purposes of paragraph 26 “ specified renter” means a renter in respect of whom all of the following conditions are met.

(2) The first condition is that the renter is a single person (or a member of a couple claiming as a single person) who—

(a) is under 35 years old, and

(b) is not an excepted person under paragraph 28.

(3) The second condition is that the renter is not responsible for any children or qualifying young persons.

(4) The third condition is that no person is a non-dependant in relation to the renter.

Renters excepted from shared accommodation N.I.

28.—(1) “ Excepted person” means any renter (“E”) who falls within any of sub-paragraphs (2) to [F40 (5C)] .

(2) E is at least 18 but under [F41 25 years] old and was a care leaver (within the meaning of regulation 8) before reaching the age of 18.

(3) E is at least [F42 16] but under 35 years old and—

(a) has, for a total of at least 3 months (whether or not continuously), lived in one or more hostels for homeless people, and

(b) whilst E was living in such a hostel, was offered and has accepted support services which the Department considers are intended to assist E to be rehabilitated or resettled within the community.

(4) E is under 35 years old and is in receipt of—

(a) the care component of disability living allowance at the middle or highest rate;

[F43 (aa) the care component of child disability payment at the middle or highest rate in accordance with regulation 11(5) of the DACYP Regulations;]

(b) attendance allowance, F44 ...

(c) the daily living component of personal independence payment.

[F45 or

(d) the daily living component of adult disability payment at the standard or enhanced rate]

(5) E is under 35 years old and he is the subject of risk management pursuant to arrangements established under Part 3 of the Criminal Justice (Northern Ireland ) Order 2008 M7

[F46 (5A) E is under 35 years old and satisfies the foster carer condition (within the meaning of paragraph 11(4)).]

[F47 (5B) E is under 35 years old and—

(a) after attaining the age of 16 had domestic violence inflicted upon or threatened against them (“the victim”) by their partner or former partner, or by a relative; and

(b) provides evidence from a person acting in an official capacity which demonstrates that—

(i) the victim’s circumstances are consistent with their having had domestic violence inflicted upon or threatened against them; and

(ii) the victim has contacted a person acting in an official capacity in relation to such an incident.

(5C) E is under 35 years old and has been the subject of a positive conclusive grounds determination relating to modern slavery.]

(6) In this paragraph—

• “care home”, “registered charity” and “voluntary organisation” have the meaning given in Schedule 1;

• [F48 “competent authority” means a person who is a competent authority within the meaning of the Trafficking Convention;

• “compulsory labour”, “forced labour”, “servitude” and “slavery” have the same meaning as in Article 4 of the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, agreed by the Council of Europe at Rome on 4th November 1950 as it has effect for the time being in relation to the United Kingdom;]

• “hostel” means a building—

  (a)

  in which there is provided, for persons generally or for a class of persons, domestic accommodation, otherwise than in separate and self-contained premises, and either board or facilities for the preparation of food adequate to the needs of those persons, or both;

  (b)

  which is—

  (i)

  managed or owned by a registered housing association,

  (ii)

  operated other than on a commercial basis and in respect of which funds are provided wholly or in part by a government department or agency, the Housing Executive or a Regional Health and Social Care Board or Health and Social Care Trust , or

  (iii)

  managed by a voluntary organisation or registered charity and provides care, support or supervision with a view to assisting those persons to be rehabilitated or resettled within the community, and

  (c)

  which is not a care home;

• “hostel for homeless people” means a hostel the main purpose of which is to provide accommodation together with care, support or supervision for homeless people with a view to assisting such persons to be rehabilitated or resettled within the community.

• [F49 “person acting in an official capacity” means a health care professional (within the meaning given by regulation 96(5)), a police officer, a registered social worker (within the meaning given by regulation 96(5)), the victim’s employer, or any public, voluntary, or charitable body which has had direct contact with the victim in connection with domestic violence;

• “positive conclusive grounds determination relating to modern slavery” means a determination made by a competent authority that an individual is a victim of trafficking in human beings, slavery, servitude or forced or compulsory labour;

• “the Trafficking Convention” means the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (done at Warsaw on 16th May 2005);

• “trafficking in human beings” has the same meaning as in the Trafficking Convention.]

Textual Amendments

F40 Word in Sch. 4 para. 28(1) substituted (1.10.2022) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Victims of Domestic Abuse and Victims of Modern Slavery) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 (S.R. 2022/211), regs. 1(1), 3(3)(a)

F41 Words in Sch. 4 para. 28(2) substituted (31.5.2021) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Care Leavers and Homeless) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 (S.R. 2021/118), regs. 1, 3(2)(a)

F42 Word in Sch. 4 para. 28(3) substituted (31.5.2021) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Care Leavers and Homeless) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 (S.R. 2021/118), regs. 1, 3(2)(b)

F43 Sch. 4 para. 28(4)(aa) inserted (26.7.2021) by The Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (Disability Assistance for Children and Young People) (Consequential Modifications) Order 2021 (S.I. 2021/786), art. 1(2), Sch. 12 para. 8(4)

F44 Word in Sch. 4 para. 28(4)(b) omitted (21.3.2022) by virtue of The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(g)(i)

F45 Sch. 4 para. 28(4)(d) and word inserted (21.3.2022) by The Social Security (Disability Assistance for Working Age People) (Consequential Amendments) Order 2022 (S.I. 2022/177), arts. 1(2), 28(8)(g)(ii)

F46 Sch. 4 para. 28(5A) inserted (28.11.2018) by The Universal Credit and Jobseekers Allowance (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/187), regs. 1(2), 3(8)(c)(ii)

F47 Sch. 4 para. 28(5B)(5C) inserted (1.10.2022) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Victims of Domestic Abuse and Victims of Modern Slavery) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 (S.R. 2022/211), regs. 1(1), 3(3)(b)

F48 Words in Sch. 4 para. 28(6) inserted (1.10.2022) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Victims of Domestic Abuse and Victims of Modern Slavery) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 (S.R. 2022/211), regs. 1(1), 3(3)(c)(i)

F49 Words in Sch. 4 para. 28(6) inserted (1.10.2022) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Victims of Domestic Abuse and Victims of Modern Slavery) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 (S.R. 2022/211), regs. 1(1), 3(3)(c)(ii)

Marginal Citations

M7 S.I. 2008/1216 (N.I.1).

PART 5 N.I. Social rented sector F50 ...

Textual Amendments

F50 Words in Sch. 4 Pt. 5 heading omitted (8.5.2018) by virtue of The Universal Credit (Persons Required to Provide Information, Miscellaneous Amendments and Saving and Transitional Provision) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/92), regs. 1(2), 6(19)(f) (with reg. 10(1))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3 Sch. 4 Pt. 5 applied by S.I. 2015/2006 (N.I. 1), art. 137A(2)(c) (as inserted (13.10.2016) by The Welfare Reform and Work (Northern Ireland) Order 2016 (S.I. 2016/999 (N.I. 1)), arts. 2(2)(d), 19(2))

Application of Part 5 N.I.

29.— [F51 (1) This Part applies to renters who are liable to make rent payments to a provider of social housing.]

(2) Sub-paragraph (1) applies irrespective of whether renters are also liable to make service charge payments.

Textual Amendments

F51 Sch. 4 para. 29(1) substituted (8.5.2018) by The Universal Credit (Persons Required to Provide Information, Miscellaneous Amendments and Saving and Transitional Provision) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/92), regs. 1(2), 6(19)(g) (with reg. 10(1))

Reduction in certain cases of amounts to be taken into account N.I.

Deduction from relevant payments of amounts relating to use of particular accommodation N.I.

30.  In determining the amount of any relevant payment to be taken into account under paragraph 5, a deduction is to be made for any amount which the Department is satisfied—

(a) is included in the relevant payment, but

(b) relates to the supply to the accommodation of a commodity (such as water or fuel) for use by any member of the renter's extended benefit unit.

Relevant payments excessive N.I.

31.  Where it appears to the Department that—

(a) the amount of any relevant payment for which the renter is liable in respect of accommodation occupied by the renter is greater than it is reasonable to meet by way of the housing costs element under this Part, and

(b) the amount of the relevant payment that, at the time of the calculation under this Part, a landlord might reasonably have expected to obtain is a lower amount,

the lower amount is to be used in making the calculation under this Part instead of the amount of the relevant payment for which the renter is liable, unless the Department is satisfied that it is not appropriate to use that lower amount.

The calculation of the housing costs element under this Part N.I.

The amount of housing costs element N.I.

32.—(1) The amount of the renter's housing costs element under this Part is to be calculated by reference to the formula—

where—

“S” is the amount resulting from whichever of paragraph 33 or 34 applies in the renter's case,

“HCC” is the sum of the housing cost contributions (if any) under paragraph 12.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C4 Sum in Sch. 4 para. 32 specified (24.3.2018) by The Social Security (2017 Benefits Up-rating) Order (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/56), arts. 1, 27(4), Sch. 17

Determining the amount from which HCC deductions are to be made N.I.

33.  Except where paragraph 34 applies, amount S referred to in paragraph 32 is to be found as follows—

Step 1

Determine which relevant payments are to be taken into account under paragraph 5 and determine the amount of each of them (applying paragraphs 30 and 31 as necessary).

Step 2

Determine the period in respect of which each relevant payment is payable and, in accordance with paragraph 6, determine the amount of the payment in respect of a month.

Step 3

If there is more than one relevant payment, add together the amounts determined in step 2 in relation to all relevant payments.

Step 4

Determine under paragraph 35(1) whether an under-occupation deduction is to be made and, if one is to be made, determine the amount of the deduction under paragraph 35(2) and deduct it from the amount resulting from step 2 or 3 (as the case may be).

The result is amount S from which the sum of the housing cost contributions are to be deducted under paragraph 32.

Determining the amount from which HCC deductions are to be made: joint tenants N.I.

34.—(1) This paragraph applies where, in respect of the accommodation occupied by the renter, one or more persons other than the renter is liable to make relevant payments which are of the same description as those for which the renter is liable and which are to be taken into account under paragraph 5.

(2) Amount S referred to in paragraph 32 is to be found as follows.

Step 1

Determine the total of all relevant payments referred to in sub-paragraph (1) for which the renter and others are liable in respect of the accommodation taken as a whole (applying paragraphs 30 and 31 as necessary).

Step 2

Determine the period in respect of which each relevant payment is payable and, in accordance with paragraph 6, determine the amount of the payment in respect of a month.

Step 3

Add together all of the amounts determined in step 2 in relation to all relevant payments.

Step 4

Find amount S in accordance with whichever of sub-paragraphs (3) to (5) applies in the renter's case.

The result is amount S from which the sum of the housing cost contributions are to be deducted under paragraph 32.

(3) Where the only persons liable to make relevant payments are listed persons, amount S is the amount resulting from step 3 in sub-paragraph (2) less the amount of the under-occupation deduction (if any) required by paragraph 35.

(4) Where the persons liable for the relevant payments are one or more listed persons and one or more other persons, amount S is to be found by the applying the formula—

where—

“A” is the amount resulting from step 3 in sub-paragraph (2),

“B” is the total number of all persons (including listed persons) liable to make the relevant payments, and

“C” is the number of listed persons.

(5) If the Department is satisfied that it would be unreasonable to determine amount S in accordance with sub-paragraph (4), amount S is to be determined in such manner as the Department considers appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard (among other things) to the number of persons liable and the proportion of the relevant payments for which each of them is liable.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C5 Sum in Sch. 4 para. 34(4) specified (24.3.2018) by The Social Security (2017 Benefits Up-rating) Order (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/56), arts. 1, 27(4), Sch. 17

Under-occupancy deduction N.I.

35.—(1) A deduction for under-occupancy is to be made under this paragraph where the number of bedrooms in the accommodation exceeds the number of bedrooms to which the renter is entitled under paragraphs 7 to 11.

(2) Where a deduction is to be made, the amount of the deduction is to be determined by the formula—

where—

“A”—

(a)

in relation to any deduction under paragraph 33, is the amount resulting from step 2 or 3 in that paragraph (as the case may be), or

(b)

in relation to any deduction under paragraph 34(3), is the amount resulting from step 3 in paragraph 34(2);

“B” is the relevant percentage.

(3) The relevant percentage is 14% in the case of one excess bedroom.

(4) The relevant percentage is 25% in the case of 2 or more excess bedrooms.

(5) No deduction for under-occupation is to be made in calculating the amount of the renter's housing costs element under this Part in any case to which regulation 27(4) to (6) (equity–sharing lease) applies.

[F52 (6) (a) No deduction for under occupation is to be made in calculating the amount of a renter’s housing cost element under this part where—

(i) domestic violence has been inflicted upon or threatened against the claimant or a member of the claimants extended benefit unit (“the victim”) by that person’s partner or former partner, or by a relative;

(ii) the victim is not living at the same address as the person who inflicted or threatened the domestic violence, except where that person is a qualifying young person and is a dependant of a member of the claimant’s extended benefit unit; and

(iii) the claimant provides evidence from a person acting in an official capacity which demonstrates that claimant is living in a property adapted under a sanctuary scheme and—

(aa) the victim’s circumstances are consistent with those of a person who has had domestic violence inflicted upon or threatened against them; and

(ab) the victim has made contact with the person acting in an official capacity in relation to such an incident.

(b) In this paragraph—

[F53 “person acting in an official capacity” has the meaning given to it in regulation 96(5) of these Regulations;]

F54 ...

“sanctuary scheme” means a scheme operated by a provider of social housing enabling victims of domestic violence to remain in their homes through the installation of additional security to the property or the perimeter of the property at which the victim resides.]

Textual Amendments

F52 Sch. 4 para. 35(6)(a)(b) inserted (1.10.2021) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Sanctuary Schemes) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 (S.R. 2021/248), regs. 1(1), 3

F53 Words in Sch. 4 para. 35(6)(b) substituted (1.10.2022) by The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Victims of Domestic Abuse and Victims of Modern Slavery) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 (S.R. 2022/211), regs. 1(1), 3(4)(a)

F54 Word in Sch. 4 para. 35(6)(b) omitted (1.10.2022) by virtue of The Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Victims of Domestic Abuse and Victims of Modern Slavery) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2022 (S.R. 2022/211), regs. 1(1), 3(4)(b)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C6 Sch. 4 para. 35 applied by S.I. 2015/2006 (N.I. 1), art. 137A(2)(d) (as inserted (13.10.2016) by The Welfare Reform and Work (Northern Ireland) Order 2016 (S.I. 2016/999 (N.I. 1)), arts. 2(2)(d), 19(2))

C7 Sum in Sch. 4 para. 35(2) specified (24.3.2018) by The Social Security (2017 Benefits Up-rating) Order (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/56), arts. 1, 27(4), Sch. 17

C8 Sum in Sch. 4 para. 35(3) specified (24.3.2018) by The Social Security (2017 Benefits Up-rating) Order (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/56), arts. 1, 27(4), Sch. 17

C9 Sum in Sch. 4 para. 35(4) specified (24.3.2018) by The Social Security (2017 Benefits Up-rating) Order (Northern Ireland) 2018 (S.R. 2018/56), arts. 1, 27(4), Sch. 17