Understanding your rent
We are committed to ensuring rents are fair, affordable and set in line with government requirements and regulatory standards. Most rents are set in accordance with the Regulator of Social Housing's Rent Standard and are reviewed each year.
When setting rents, we consider factors such as government policy, property type, local affordability and the need to maintain and invest in homes and services. Residents receive written notice of any rent changes before they take effect.
We also consider affordability and value for money when reviewing rents, helping to ensure we can continue to provide safe, well-maintained homes and quality services for residents.
Understanding your service charges
Service charges help cover the cost of services that benefit homes, buildings and neighbourhoods but are not included within the basic rent charge. Depending on where you live, this may include services such as communal cleaning, grounds maintenance, lighting, lifts, CCTV, door entry systems and communal heating.
We are committed to ensuring service charges are fair, transparent and represent value for money. Each year we review service costs, challenge expenditure and assess charges to ensure they remain reasonable and accurate.
Residents are only charged for services where their tenancy agreement, lease or occupancy agreement allows the cost to be recovered. We also provide information about how charges are calculated and notify residents of any changes before they take effect.
If you have questions about your rent or service charges, or are concerned about affordability, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.
Service Charge Policy
Read our Service Charge Policy on our policies page
Service Charges: Income and Spending
In 2026, Castles & Coasts collected £4.1 million in service charges from residents. This money helps pay for shared services and communal areas, including maintenance, cleaning, grounds services and other housing-related services.
Our Annual Report and Financial Statements show that we spent £5.1 million on service charge-related costs during 2026. Service charge income is used alongside other income to support the delivery of housing services and the management of homes.