Government bids to raise standards in the private rented sector

Published: 23/04/2013

The All Party Parliamentary Group for the Private Rented Sector is investigating ways in which it can improve the standards within the private rented sector.

The bid comes after figures from the English Housing Survey revealed 21% of rental properties have at least one safety hazard.

The first session is scheduled for Tuesday 14th May and presents members with the opportunity to question witnesses on safety improvements. The subsequent report will then be made to Ministers.

Martin Vickers is the Group Chairman and Member of Parliament for Cleethorpes:

“All official figures show that the private rented sector is now the only housing tenure growing. Whilst good news for those in need of a home as well as supporting economic growth, this increase in the size of the sector needs to be sustainable.

“Growth of this kind naturally increases choice for tenants who may then be able to avoid poor quality stock. This inquiry however will assess how to ensure that this is matched by measures that improve safety in the sector as well as securing a regulatory system that supports growth, whilst rooting out the minority of landlords who bring the sector into disrepute and cause misery for tenants.

“I would encourage all those with an interest to have their say.”

Contributors are being welcomed. Please supply written submissions (1500 word maximum) to Ed Jacobs on admin@prs-group.org.uk by Wednesday 1st May.

Content correct at time of publication