No gain in mortgage error

THE Money Advice Association believes 100,000 families a year receive incorrect mortgage payments from the Benefits Agency - and many risk losing their homes as a result, writes Vivien Goldsmith.

These figures are quoted in a new update of a guide that brings together mortgages, welfare benefits, tax allowances, property and family law to help owner-occupiers in difficulties.

The authors, Paul Moorhouse and David Thomas, say that while the mortgage crisis of the last five years has led many lenders to re-examine their policies, 'advisers still encounter far too many examples of a lack of sympathy, prejudice and even bureaucratic incompetence on the part of lenders, leading to people losing their homes.'

'Rights Guide for Home Owners' (10th edition) by Paul Moorhouse and David Thomas. pounds 7.95 (incl p&p) from CPAG, 1-5 Bath Street, London EC1V 9PY.