This page applies to all Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust’s tenants and leaseholders, who pay a variable service charge for gas or electricity in communal areas. If you are unsure if this applies to you, please check your latest service charge breakdown.
Why are we applying for dispensation
Energy costs have risen significantly in recent years. The gas and electricity JRHT buys for communal areas is not covered by Ofgem’s domestic price cap, because it must be purchased through the commercial market.
Commercial energy prices can change daily. Our energy broker, Utility Aid has advised that a 3 year contract is the best way to keep costs stable and protect tenants and leaseholders from sudden price increases.
To secure the best price, we need to act quickly. The formal consultation required under Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 takes 3 months which would prevent us from locking in a competitive rate.
Because of this, we are applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for dispensation from the full Section 20 consultation requirements.
Your rights and how to comment
The tribunal requires us to make tenants and leaseholders aware of this application and your right to give feedback. Once submitted, a copy of our application and all associated documents will be available on this page. If you would like to comment on the application, please contact our Customer Access Team:
- information@jrht.org.uk
- 0800 587 0211