Service charges are charges you must pay as a condition of occupying your home.
Service charges payments are made for include:
- maintenance and cleaning of communal areas
- upkeep of communal grounds
- provision of laundry areas and equipment
- provision of a children's play area
- a warden in sheltered accommodation
The charge must not be covered by your housing benefit to be considered as part of your assessment.
Service charges not considered in your assessment include:
- emergency alarm systems
- nursing or medical expenses
- meals or the provision of unprepared food
- laundry costs
- leisure facilities
- furniture or household equipment
- emptying of cesspits or sceptic tanks
Check what help you could get to pay for NHS costs and apply online.