Challenges with and for Private Landlords and

Tenants

Mark Patchett

• Circa one third of properties at each of the four (ex)MOD sites are owned by private landlords and rented to tenants

In Newtoft these are pepper-potted across the community, and in other sites are largely in blocks

• Tenure is not necessarily a problem but a large concentration of private rented can be

The Problem

Privately rented housing: Frequently-poor quality and sub-standard housing-low levels of insulation and inefficient heating -poorly maintained, both internally and external (incl. gardens and environment)-absentee landlords, so difficult to contact

Impact is felt by both tenants and neighbouring areas, especially where rent levels are low(er) or there are voids

Key Issues – Private Landlords

Tenants in private rented sector may- be vulnerable and/or have complex (family) needs-inappropriately opt for property or are placed -have previous history of anti-social behaviour and/or been evicted from previous tenancies-find it difficult to access appropriate services and support

Key Issues - Tenants

There is a strong correlation between badly managed, poor quality rental properties and anti-social behaviour.

Ideally requires measures aimed at both supporting and/or controlling landlords and tenants 

• Many authorities run voluntary accreditation schemes with aim to achieve a decent standard of letting which meets or exceeds all legal requirements

• Accreditation means achieving standards in a number of areas incl.

- tenancy Agreement (setting out landlord and tenant responsibilities)

- certification, decoration, cleanliness, maintenance

Example: Landlord Accreditation

• The Housing Act 2004 requires local authorities to licence privately rented dwellings in three categories:

- Mandatory licensing of houses in multiple occupation (HMO) with three or more storeys, five or more people and two or more households

- Additional licensing of HMOs excluded from the above

- Selective licensing of other private dwellings where the local authority considers it will benefit tenants and communities, in areas of low demand and/or areas with problems of anti-social behaviour

Example: Compulsory Licensing

• Support and training for responsible landlords• Prosecution of irresponsible landlords• Reduce anti-social behaviour• Halt area decline• Better housing standards for private tenants• Benefit to wider community and business• Long term economic benefits

Benefits of Licensing

Recommended : Focus on Solutions•Tenant Engagement•Tenancy Support Officers help prevent tenancy breakdown•“Tenant Referencing” scheme•Enforcement Action•Anti-Social Behaviour Orders•Litter Abatement Notices•Penalty Charge Notices under the Noise Act 1996•Work with the Community•Challenge perceptions•Publicise enforcement action

Recent Area Based Pilot

Community Development practices:-Distribution of welcome pack-Welcome visit to engage and identify support needs-Broker practical advice and support as appropriate-Encourage full participation in community life and culture

Example: Community Engagement