Warwick District Council has recently begun enforcing the new policy, intended to drive down the authority's £660,000 rent arrears.

Officials have repossessed two garages since June and plan a further 14 actions unless payments are made. Repossessions can take place even if the account for the garage is up to date.

Head of housing and property services Bill Hunt explained the idea was to stop tenants' debt becoming unmanageable and help them concentrate on their first priority - their home.

He said: "It isn't sensible to be making an agreement to pay off arrears on your home if you're also trying to find the weekly rent for a garage. A garage to park your car can hardly be classed as a priority compared to the risk of losing your home."

With garage rent only £4.34 per week and one debt repayment of £1,200, officials believe the sum is a financial distraction.

Mr Hunt added that when residents did fall behind officers would find out if they were entitled to housing benefit before making an agreement to help pay their current rent and a portion of the debt.

Councillor Moira-Ann Grainger is responsible for housing policy. She added: "We understand that a household's circumstances can change and that money can be tight, but paying for your home must always be a priority.

"It's just a question of getting the balance right."

Anyone having difficulty paying their rent should contact the council's income recovery team on 450000.