Is Retirement Housing provided as a right to all Baptist ministers and missionaries?

No. Quite apart from the need to meet the eligibility criteria, those who are fully able to make adequate provision for themselves are expected to do so.

What does the RBMHO scheme provide?

Resources to enable retired Ministers and their spouses (if applicable) to have a  home for life in the area of their choice (subject to the financial ceiling set annually) at a below market rent.

When should I apply?

The Organisation accepts initial applications five years in advance of retirement.

Can my own money be added?

Yes, subject to certain limitations. Ministers or spouses (if applicable) can add their own money to what the Organisation will provide in order to permit the acquisition of a property.

Are there any restrictions on types of property?

Houses, bungalows or flats can all be considered, but they must be freehold or long leasehold and structurally sound. Normally we will not purchase properties which have an EPC lower than a C unless they can be updated within the purchase budget limits to reach a C. Listed properties or those more than 35 years old are unlikely to be considered because of the likely higher costs of maintenance and because it is very difficult to ensure that they meet the energy efficiency requirements that the governments across the devolved nations are now requiring. Our preference is to purcahse new builds or properties less than 10 years old.

Can other family members live with me?

While we may give permission for other family members to live in the property, they will not be granted tenancy rights and will therefore need to vacate the property if you are no longer living there.

Will I be able to have a dog or cat?

Yes, you'll be able to keep pets, subject to any covenant restrictions on the property. 

Is there a ‘Means Test’ to establish eligibility?

Not as such, but Ministers and spouses (if applicable) are asked to be frank with the RBHMO about their capital resources and likely income. This is to ensure a mutual agreement is reached on how much, if any, of those resources should be made available for purchase of retirement accommodation.

What happens if I inherit once I am a tenant?

If you inherit a significant sum we may ask you to take or increase an equity share in the property, or even buy us out completely. 

What happens if a Minister dies in service?

In the event of a Minister dying in service the Organisation would look to offer to help their surviving spouse (if applicable) as far as future housing needs are concerned.

What happens if I can no longer live independently?

We are only able to provide you with accomodation while you are able to live in our property with support coming in as necessary. We are not able to provide sheltered accomodation or nursing home care.

What happens when I die?

When a tenant dies the surviving spouse (if applicable) may continue to occupy the home under exactly the same terms and conditions. However, if they remarry their new spouse will not be granted tenancy rights which means that when the original tenant(s) have died the property will need to be vacated. When a property is vacated through death or through giving up the tenancy, it will usually be offered to other applicants on the list or put on the market for sale, with the proceedings used for the purchase of other properties.

What costs have to be met in retirement?

Ministers and spouses become tenants of the RBMHO and the relationship is governed by a Tenancy Agreement which sets out the respective obligations of each party. Tenants are responsible for interior decoration, floor coverings (except kitchen and bathroom) and their own contents insurance, council tax and utility bills. As the Landlord, RBMHO is responsible for the structure of the property, including electrics, plumbing, heating, kitchen and bathrooms fixtures and fitting, windows and doors. The routine maintenance of the garden is the tenants responsibility. RBMHO cover costs such as maintaining boundary walls and fences, paving and driveways. RBMHO cover the buildings insurance.

What will the rent be?

Tenants pay a monthly rent to the RBMHO which is generally only a fraction of the market rent level. Rents are calculated as 10% of a households monthly taxable income subject to a minimum rent figure which is currently £224.50 per calendar month. 

Who will own the property?

The property is purchased in the name of the RBMHO Trust Corporation Limited.

What has happened to RBMHS?

RBMHS became RBMHO (Retired Baptist Ministers Housing Organisation) following its registration with the Charity Commission. RBMHO is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) registered with the Chaity Commission under charity number 1177649.