Mortgage Debt Advice Service
The Mortgage Debt Advice Service (MDAS) has been funded as a pilot by the Department for Social Development since May 2009. Following a recent procurement exercise, a new contract between the Department and the Housing Rights Service has been established to operate the Service. The main aim of MDAS is to help those who have financial problems that threaten their ability to remain in their homes. An evaluation of a pilot service completed in September 2010 indicated that the service offers good value for money helping clients to avoid homelessness and it is evident that the advice being provided is having the desired effect. Approval has been obtained to continue funding for the service until 31 March 2013 with an option to extend for a further 2 year period.
If you are having difficulty making mortgage payments, you should consider contacting the Mortgage Debt and Advice Service. The service provides mortgage debt advice Monday-Friday 9.30 am-5.00 pm and two weekday evenings 5.00pm-8.00pm. Full details of the services it provides can also be found at www.housingrights.org.uk. This free, independent and confidential service can be accessed by phoning Housing Rights Service on 0300 3230310 or dropping into Middleton Buildings, 10-12 High Street, Belfast, BT1 2BA. Other initiatives to help those struggling with mortgage payments include:
- Pre-action protocols – on 1st August 2009 Lord Chief Justice’s Office published pre-action protocols for Northern Ireland. This encourages greater contact between the lender and the borrower in an effort to seek agreement between the parties before seeking a repossession order.
- Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI)– If you are a homeowner and get certain income related benefits you may qualify for help towards mortgage interest payments which is payable as part of your benefit. Find out if you are eligible how to claim SMI by contacing your local Jobs and Benefits/Social Security Office or Employment Support Allowance Centre.
If you can’t meet your mortgage repayments, or you’re worried you might fall behind, contact your lender as soon as possible.
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