BHT Sussex has identified an issue affecting a number of its tenants and is taking immediate steps to resolve the matter.

The issue, which involves an historical overcharge of rental payments dating back to 2016, was discovered during a rent review exercise.

BHT Sussex has written to all affected tenants and is in the process of making arrangements to repay those affected. Only a small number of tenants are owed money directly, with most rental payments having come through tenants housing benefit allowance or Universal Credit payments.

The Regulator of Social Housing has been notified of this issue together with the relevant local authority regarding any housing benefit that may been overpaid and, where applicable, the Department for Work and Pensions where universal credit is applicable.

“We are deeply sorry for the inconvenience this may cause and want to reassure our tenants and the wider public that we are committed to putting things right,” said David Chaffey, BHT Sussex CEO. “Our priority is the wellbeing and trust of our tenants, and we are working hard to resolve the issue as quickly and transparently as possible.”

Regular updates will be sent out to tenants and posted on the BHT Sussex website as more information becomes available.

Tenants who have questions or concerns can call Shirley Campbell, BHT Sussex’s Income Recovery Officer, on 07826 868957, or contact her by email at [email protected].

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