A group of cross-party MPs has called for a new form of statutory regulation of the private rented sector.
In particular, the MPs are calling for guaranteed minimum standards for tenants, including safeguards against high rents and increased security of tenure – suggesting 24 months, not six.In addition, it wants local councils to be encouraged to introduce accreditation schemes for private landlords.
The Housing Voice Alliance, led by Labour’s Lord Whitty, also wants the incorporation of Local Housing Allowance into the new Universal Credit to be delayed.
The Housing Voice Alliance is also calling for the housing minister to attend Cabinet and for a minimum of 250,000 new homes to be built each year for the next 20 years.
David Sansome, Managing Director at Sansome & George said: “The need for improved regulation of the private rental sector is well supported within the industry and yet Governments have consistently resisted change.
The recent announcement of changes to the Estate Agents Act and the repeal of the Property Misdescriptions Act are tackling, what many of us see as, non-issues, and yet the opportunity to do something meaningful and in the public interest in regards lettings has again been passed over.
The new Housing Minister, Mark Prisk, has, in the past, supported greater regulation of letting agents and so it will be interesting to see his stance now that he is in holding the key position of influence.”
