What options for a pensioner renting privately?

[Worried62]

What would be the options for a pensioner who has been renting private rented accomodation all his life, never having been able to buy a house. He then reaches retirement age, going onto half-pay with little savings, and is unable to pay rent because of the half-pay as he had previously been doing.

Would the local authority housing scheme provide hope for such a person, and what options would be offered? Would such a person be considered a high priority?

Thanks in advance for any replies.

(Later Edit: Where for example pension is €350 per week and rent for the pensioner's bedsit is, say, €150 or €180 per week)

 

[kazana]

Have a relative in a similar situation. however she has an inheritance which she is using to subsidise bedsit rent although it will only last a few years. She did get an offer of a room from a voluntary organisation although it was poor qualiy and overpriced compared to her current room. would be very interested in any replies to your queries. Is a pensionner with limited means and little savings entitled to any kind of priority for housing?

 

[gipimann]

The person could make an application for Rent Supplement - although there are maximum rent limits and other qualifying criteria, some exceptions can apply for pensioners.

 

[Worried62]

Many thanks, Gipimann.