Today in politics: MPs call for resources for local authorities to use enforcement powers
In our politics update today we take a look at calls from some MPs to give local authorities more resources to police the private rented sector, and "No DSS" adverts.
Local Authorities Should Be Given More Resources to Police PRS, MPs Say
The Housing, Communities and Local Government select committee has now published its report; "Building More Social Housing". The report detials the findings of its inquiry into the long term delivery of social and affordable homes. The report mostly focusses on the social rented sector, though does also touch upon the private rented sector.
Of note, the report says of the PRS:
- The Committee concurs with the conclusions of the preceding Committee’s report into the PRS with regards to the need for improvements in the quality of PRS properties, as well as the need for improved rights for tenants.
- Whilst the Government increases social housing supply, it should also look to improve the private rented sector at the same time. To this end the Committee supports the Government’s intentions to improve the experience of tenants in the PRS, including on security of tenure, quality of housing and affordability.
- Legislative proposals should be brought forward on all of these as soon as possible.
- Whilst local authorities must be better at enforcing standards in the PRS, the Government must provide more resources for them to ensure that they have the capacity to enforce the law.
“No Plans” to Introduce Legislation to Ban ‘No DSS’ Adverts, Minister Says
There are “no plans at present” to introduce legislation that would prevent landlords from refusing to accept tenants who are in receipt of benefit payments, the Housing Minister Christopher Pincher has said in answer to a written parliamentary question.
Interim Leader of the Liberal Democrats Sir Edward Davey MP asked “[will the Secretary of State] bring forward legislative proposals to prevent landlords from refusing to accept tenants in receipt of benefit payments.”
Mr Pincher responded:
“We are clear that ‘No DSS’ or any blanket ban on tenants on the basis that they are in receipt of benefits has no place in a modern housing market.
“We strongly encourage landlords and agents to look at all potential and existing tenants claiming housing benefit on an individual basis, and have worked with the sector to find ways to prevent the practice of 'No DSS'. Last year major lettings portals Zoopla and Rightmove agreed to stop use of 'No DSS' adverts on their websites, and several major lenders agreed to remove restrictions on mortgages which prevented landlords from letting to tenants on benefits.
“We have no plans at present to introduce legislation on this issue but are committed to bringing forward a Renters Reform Bill in due course, to deliver a better deal for renters and a fairer and more effective rental market.”
It comes as earlier this month it was revealed that a judge ruled "No DSS" policy unlawful after a mother was rejected by a lettings agency.
