In an session in the House of Commons today (20/1/25) the Secretary of State for Housing, Angela Rayner was challenged on several points: It can be seen here (from 14:30)
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner’s Position
- Balance Between Rights: Ms Rayner emphasised the need to balance landlords’ and renters’ rights, stating, “People need homes that are safe.”
- Empty Homes: She addressed concerns about properties being left vacant, particularly by the National Trust, and committed to ensuring empty homes are brought back into use.
- Holding Landlords Accountable: Rayner reiterated the government’s stance that while most landlords provide safe, decent homes, those who fail to meet standards should be held accountable.
Concerns from Conservative MPs
- Greg Smith (Mid Buckinghamshire):
- Highlighted an issue where National Trust-owned rental properties in Bradenham are reportedly being left empty to avoid the regulatory “burdens” imposed on landlords.
- Questioned how the government plans to address the impact of these regulations on villages like Bradenham, which face declining rental availability.
- Graham Stuart (Beverley and Holderness):
- Warned that pushing for ever-higher standards could ultimately harm tenants if it drives landlords out of the market.
- Asked how the government plans to keep the PRS investable to ensure tenants have housing options.
Legislative Context: The Renters’ Rights Bill
- Key Proposals:
- End no-fault evictions.
- Prevent bidding wars for tenancies.
- Allow tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases.
- Stop landlords from demanding more than one month’s rent upfront.
- Intended Impact:
- Enhance tenant protections.
- Address affordability and housing security.
- Encourage landlords to maintain properties to a high standard.
- Potential Unintended Consequences:
- Concerns that stricter regulations could deter landlords, reducing rental stock and exacerbating housing shortages.
Analysis of the Debate
- Empty Homes and Regulatory Burden:
- National Trust’s decision to leave properties empty reflects broader concerns about regulatory compliance costs.
- Balancing the need for high standards with incentives for landlords is crucial to prevent housing shortages.
- Affordability and Supply Challenges:
- Rising standards are essential for tenant safety, but measures must consider market realities to avoid disincentivising investment in the PRS.
- Calls for Collaboration:
- Addressing issues like empty homes and declining rental stock will require coordination between government, local councils, and landlords.
