Recommendations & Conclusions
92 items
1
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Deferred
Most social homes provide tenants with warm, safe and decent places to live. The prevalence of poor conditions across the sector is generally lower than in other tenures. However, progress at bringing all social homes up to a minimum standard of decency has almost ground to a halt, with very …
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Most social homes provide tenants with warm, safe and decent places to live. The prevalence of poor conditions across the sector is generally lower than in other tenures. However, progress at bringing all social homes up to a minimum standard of decency has almost ground to a halt, with very little improvement since the pandemic. Over 25 years since the Decent Homes Standard was introduced, it is not acceptable that just under 430,000 social homes still fail to meet even this basic standard. Moreover, factors such as climate change, our country’s ageing population, and the inevitable deterioration of existing stock could lead to even more people living in poor quality, unsafe homes. (Conclusion, Paragraph 12)
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Government response AI summary
The government will set out wider plans for housing in the Long-Term Housing Strategy, which they will publish shortly, bringing together many of the changes that they have already announced and providing long-term certainty on future regulatory requirements.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
2
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Accepted
We support the Government’s plans to raise the standard of social homes over the next decade, while boosting supply. These actions will go some way to improving the quality and safety of social homes. However, the Government’s plans do not address some of the long-term systemic drivers of poor conditions, …
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We support the Government’s plans to raise the standard of social homes over the next decade, while boosting supply. These actions will go some way to improving the quality and safety of social homes. However, the Government’s plans do not address some of the long-term systemic drivers of poor conditions, especially the need to replace some of the country’s ageing stock of social homes, which, in some instances, are being used beyond their intended lifespan. The Long-term Housing Strategy represents an opportunity to address systemic drivers of poor conditions in the social housing sector. (Conclusion, Paragraph 24)
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Government response AI summary
The government states that Phase 1 of Awaab's Law came into force on 27 October 2025, and they are working closely with stakeholders on next steps for phases 2 and 3.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
3
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Accepted
The Long-term Housing Strategy must put in place a long-term approach for improving and maintaining social homes and addressing the systemic drivers of poor housing quality, especially a long-term approach to the regeneration of existing social homes. We reiterate our call for the Government to publish this strategy as soon …
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The Long-term Housing Strategy must put in place a long-term approach for improving and maintaining social homes and addressing the systemic drivers of poor housing quality, especially a long-term approach to the regeneration of existing social homes. We reiterate our call for the Government to publish this strategy as soon as possible. (Recommendation, Paragraph 25) 45 Raising the standard of social homes
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Government response AI summary
The government published a five-step plan including a new 10-year £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme, £2.5 billion in low-interest loans, and an extension of the 'preferential' borrowing rate.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
4
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Not Addressed
We agree with the Government’s decision to rollout Awaab’s Law in phases, focusing on tackling the most dangerous hazards first. There are risks that efforts to comply with these regulations result in providers diverting resources away from the services they provide to more vulnerable tenants. There is also a risk …
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We agree with the Government’s decision to rollout Awaab’s Law in phases, focusing on tackling the most dangerous hazards first. There are risks that efforts to comply with these regulations result in providers diverting resources away from the services they provide to more vulnerable tenants. There is also a risk that these regulations are not applied consistently across the sector. A phased rollout may help mitigate such risks. (Conclusion, Paragraph 30)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response focuses on the new Fuel Poverty Strategy, energy affordability, and Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for social housing, but doesn't address the risks of diverting resources or inconsistent application of Awaab's Law.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
5
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Acknowledged
Even though social landlords have been anticipating the introduction of Awaab’s Law for some time, the way the Government managed the introduction of Phase 1 unnecessarily added to the uncertainty and complexity providers had to grapple with to ensure they were ready to comply. We are disappointed that the final …
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Even though social landlords have been anticipating the introduction of Awaab’s Law for some time, the way the Government managed the introduction of Phase 1 unnecessarily added to the uncertainty and complexity providers had to grapple with to ensure they were ready to comply. We are disappointed that the final guidance on Awaab’s Law was published so close to when the regulations came into effect. The Government must learn from this for future phases. Social landlords and tenants need a much clearer roadmap or timeline for when the remaining phases of Awaab’s Law will be introduced, and clarity on when official guidance will be provided. (Conclusion, Paragraph 33)
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Government response AI summary
The government responded to its consultation on an updated Decent Homes Standard, designed to meet modern expectations of housing quality and provides certainty to plan and spread costs long-term with a deadline of 2035.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
6
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Deferred
The Government must urgently set and publish the timeline for extending Awaab’s Law to all remaining hazards, so that tenants and social landlords have clarity about when they can expect these new regulations to apply. This should be produced no later than 1st March 2026 to enable social housing providers …
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The Government must urgently set and publish the timeline for extending Awaab’s Law to all remaining hazards, so that tenants and social landlords have clarity about when they can expect these new regulations to apply. This should be produced no later than 1st March 2026 to enable social housing providers to factor the relevant costs into their budgets for the next financial year. (Recommendation, Paragraph 34)
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Government response AI summary
The Government will work with sector bodies to agree a compact, overseen by a taskforce, but provides no specific timeline for extending Awaab's Law to all remaining hazards.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
7
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Acknowledged
Progress at retrofitting social homes needs to accelerate if the sector is going to upgrade the remaining homes up to the required standard by 2030. The Government has not yet provided sufficient clarity to the sector on the funding available for retrofits over the Parliament. (Conclusion, Paragraph 39)
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Progress at retrofitting social homes needs to accelerate if the sector is going to upgrade the remaining homes up to the required standard by 2030. The Government has not yet provided sufficient clarity to the sector on the funding available for retrofits over the Parliament. (Conclusion, Paragraph 39)
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Government response AI summary
The government states it is focused on delivering transformational change and rebuilding financial capacity, but does not specifically address the lack of clarity on retrofit funding.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
8
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Acknowledged
The Government needs to urgently provide the sector with clarity on the funding that will be available over the remainder of this Parliament to help providers deliver the necessary improvements. (Recommendation, Paragraph 40)
Government response AI summary
The government states that the Regulator of Social Housing has introduced a new consumer regulation regime and is committed to developing detailed guidance on the revised Decent Homes Standard, but provides no specific details on funding.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
9
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Not Addressed
High energy costs mean that even tenants living in homes that have undergone energy efficiency improvements can struggle to afford to heat their homes sufficiently. The higher the standard of works, the greater the benefit. While we support the Government’s plans to bring all social homes up to a minimum …
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High energy costs mean that even tenants living in homes that have undergone energy efficiency improvements can struggle to afford to heat their homes sufficiently. The higher the standard of works, the greater the benefit. While we support the Government’s plans to bring all social homes up to a minimum standard of energy efficiency, people can still live in an EPC C home and be in fuel poverty. (Conclusion, Paragraph 42) 46
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Government response AI summary
The government response discusses the statutory New Homes Ombudsman scheme and the Housing Ombudsman but does not address how to ensure people can afford to heat homes even with energy efficiency improvements.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
10
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Accepted in Part
In the forthcoming Fuel Poverty Strategy, we recommend that the Government revise the official definition of fuel poverty to reflect the fact that those living in homes compliant with the new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard may still struggle to heat their homes sufficiently. (Recommendation, Paragraph 43)
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In the forthcoming Fuel Poverty Strategy, we recommend that the Government revise the official definition of fuel poverty to reflect the fact that those living in homes compliant with the new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard may still struggle to heat their homes sufficiently. (Recommendation, Paragraph 43)
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Government response AI summary
The government will not revise the official definition of fuel poverty, but will place a stronger emphasis on energy affordability with a new affordability indicator, and will report annually on average required energy costs as a proportion of household income.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
11
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Accepted
We welcome the Government’s changes to the Decent Homes Standard. The current standard has been out-of-date for some time and is in urgent need of reform, given that it was last updated in 2006. (Conclusion, Paragraph 48)
Government response AI summary
The government responded to its consultation on an updated and modernised Decent Homes Standard and aims to drive down rates of non-decency across the country and support landlords.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
12
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Acknowledged
The Government must introduce a process to periodically review and, if necessary, update the Decent Homes Standard at least every 10 years to ensure it reflects the changing needs of the population, environmental pressures, scientific evidence of the hazards to health from poor housing and societal expectations of what a …
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The Government must introduce a process to periodically review and, if necessary, update the Decent Homes Standard at least every 10 years to ensure it reflects the changing needs of the population, environmental pressures, scientific evidence of the hazards to health from poor housing and societal expectations of what a decent home consists of. (Recommendation, Paragraph 49)
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Government response AI summary
The government responded to its consultation on an updated Decent Homes Standard, designed to meet modern expectations of housing quality and provides certainty to plan and spread costs long-term with a deadline of 2035.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
13
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Deferred
The Government’s long implementation date for the revised Decent Homes Standard eases the burden on providers, but fails to deliver improvements with the urgency that social tenants deserve. Too many tenants will remain in poor quality, unsafe homes for too long under the implementation date that the Government has set. …
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The Government’s long implementation date for the revised Decent Homes Standard eases the burden on providers, but fails to deliver improvements with the urgency that social tenants deserve. Too many tenants will remain in poor quality, unsafe homes for too long under the implementation date that the Government has set. There is also a risk that many homes may fail to meet the revised Decent Homes Standard by the final implementation date. (Conclusion, Paragraph 54)
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Government response AI summary
The government will work with sector bodies to agree a compact overseen by a taskforce, which will focus on social and affordable housebuilding commitments and strengthened governance.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
14
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Deferred
The Government must put in place interim targets to demonstrate to tenants and the public that progress is being made. We recommend that the Government introduce interim targets stipulating the percentage of social homes that should be upgraded to the revised Decent Homes Standard in each year before the final …
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The Government must put in place interim targets to demonstrate to tenants and the public that progress is being made. We recommend that the Government introduce interim targets stipulating the percentage of social homes that should be upgraded to the revised Decent Homes Standard in each year before the final implementation date. (Recommendation, Paragraph 55) The impact on the supply of social homes
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Government response AI summary
The Government will work with sector bodies to agree a compact, overseen by a taskforce, but provides no commitment to interim targets.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
15
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Accepted
While we welcome the steps the Government has taken to rebuild the sector’s financial capacity, a lot of the extra rental income social landlords receive could be absorbed by the new compliance costs placed on them, thereby limiting their ability to invest in new social homes. Even with the Government’s …
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While we welcome the steps the Government has taken to rebuild the sector’s financial capacity, a lot of the extra rental income social landlords receive could be absorbed by the new compliance costs placed on them, thereby limiting their ability to invest in new social homes. Even with the Government’s investment in social homes and the changes to the rent settlement, we concerned that the sector will not have sufficient resources to effectively meet the Government’s new social homes target while also raising standards over the decade. (Conclusion, Paragraph 63) 47
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Government response AI summary
The government highlights existing programmes and investments aimed at improving the safety, quality, and supply of social housing, including rent policy, building safety funding, low-interest loans, and the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
16
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Accepted
There is a real risk that the costs of new regulatory requirements may lead to an increase in social landlords choosing to sell homes that have reached, or are approaching, the end of their intended lifespan, at a time when social housing is desperately needed. We welcome the changes to …
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There is a real risk that the costs of new regulatory requirements may lead to an increase in social landlords choosing to sell homes that have reached, or are approaching, the end of their intended lifespan, at a time when social housing is desperately needed. We welcome the changes to the Social and Affordable Homes Programme which will allow funds to be directed to replacing homes that “are no longer fit for purpose, meet the needs of the intended client group, or otherwise in use as social and affordable housing.” This is a useful immediate step to prevent the loss of much-need social housing. However, the Long-term Housing Strategy must set a long-term approach to the regeneration of social homes. (Conclusion, Paragraph 64)
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Government response AI summary
The government highlights existing programmes and investments aimed at improving the safety, quality, and supply of social housing, including rent policy, building safety funding, low-interest loans, and the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
17
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Accepted
The Government must publish an assessment of the cumulative impact the new regulatory requirements are likely to have on the supply of social homes over the next decade. This assessment should consider how the cumulative costs of the new regulatory requirements are likely to impact the sector’s ability to invest …
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The Government must publish an assessment of the cumulative impact the new regulatory requirements are likely to have on the supply of social homes over the next decade. This assessment should consider how the cumulative costs of the new regulatory requirements are likely to impact the sector’s ability to invest in new supply and the extent to which providers may choose to dispose of social homes that they deem too expensive to bring up to new standards. (Recommendation, Paragraph 65) Supporting social landlords to improve housing conditions
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Government response AI summary
The government claims the Decent Homes Standard Final Impact Assessment and social housing MEES Impact Assessment already set out potential impacts on the supply of new social housing.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
18
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Acknowledged
The steps the Government is taking to rebuild the sector’s financial capacity to invest in new and existing homes will help providers to meet new regulatory standards. However, we are concerned that supply chain constraints, workforce shortages and the limited uptake of technologies will mean that providers may not have …
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The steps the Government is taking to rebuild the sector’s financial capacity to invest in new and existing homes will help providers to meet new regulatory standards. However, we are concerned that supply chain constraints, workforce shortages and the limited uptake of technologies will mean that providers may not have the necessary capacity and capability to deliver the improvements to social homes that the Government aims to achieve over the next decade. (Conclusion, Paragraph 72)
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the need for a skilled supply chain and is working with the industry to provide training opportunities and build a diverse workforce, but provides no specific commitments.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
19
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Accepted
There is a strong case for the Government to establish a new, modern Decent Homes Programme that supports social landlords to raise the standard of social homes. This programme should consist of: a. a single housing quality framework or strategy that consolidates, and aligns, the regulatory requirements on social landlords. …
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There is a strong case for the Government to establish a new, modern Decent Homes Programme that supports social landlords to raise the standard of social homes. This programme should consist of: a. a single housing quality framework or strategy that consolidates, and aligns, the regulatory requirements on social landlords. b. a pooled fund that brings together existing funding for improvements to social homes and gives providers greater flexibility. c. local partnerships between local government, social landlords and the private rented sector to address skills and supply chain constraints. (Recommendation, Paragraph 73) 48
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Government response AI summary
The government states that the Regulator of Social Housing has introduced a new consumer regulation regime, details its commitment to grant funding, and highlights its work with the industry to provide high-quality training opportunities.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
20
Conclusion
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Accepted
It is vital that there are robust measures of redress in place to resolve disputes about the quality of newly built social homes. (Conclusion, Paragraph 76)
Government response AI summary
The government states it remains committed to implementing a statutory New Homes Ombudsman scheme and that social housing tenants can already access support from the Housing Ombudsman.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
21
Recommendation
4th Report – Housing Conditions in the …
Acknowledged
In response to this report, the Government must set out the timeframe for creating a statutory, UK-wide New Homes Ombudsman and the details of the mandatory consumer code developers will need to abide by. (Recommendation, Paragraph 77) 49
Government response AI summary
The government remains committed to implementing a statutory New Homes Ombudsman scheme, but provides no timeframe or details of the consumer code.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
1
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
Much of the evidence we received supports the conclusion that temporary accommodation is often so poor as to be unfit for human habitation. However, the absence of official statistics on the physical condition and quality of temporary accommodation means it is not possible to establish the prevalence and severity of …
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Much of the evidence we received supports the conclusion that temporary accommodation is often so poor as to be unfit for human habitation. However, the absence of official statistics on the physical condition and quality of temporary accommodation means it is not possible to establish the prevalence and severity of poor conditions across England. The National Plan to End Homelessness does not include a commitment to routinely collect and publish information on the physical condition of temporary accommodation. Without this information, we do not have a robust baseline against which to measure the progress of the government’s efforts to improve the physical quality of temporary accommodation. This lack of official data also limits accountability for public money. The government is spending more than ever on temporary accommodation without a good understanding of the quality of provision this money is paying for. This is not acceptable. (Conclusion, Paragraph 14)
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Government response AI summary
The government agrees on the need to understand temporary accommodation quality and commits to investigating options to improve data collection, building on existing surveys, with an update to the Committee in autumn.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
2
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Deferred
We recommend that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government use the English Housing Survey to routinely collect and publish national data on the quality of all types of temporary accommodation from 2027/28 onwards. (Recommendation, Paragraph 15) Hazards and disrepair
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We recommend that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government use the English Housing Survey to routinely collect and publish national data on the quality of all types of temporary accommodation from 2027/28 onwards. (Recommendation, Paragraph 15) Hazards and disrepair
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Government response AI summary
The government agreed with the need to improve understanding of temporary accommodation quality and is investigating options to enhance data collection, building on existing surveys like the English Housing Survey. They committed to providing an update to the Committee in the autumn.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
3
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Acknowledged
We welcome the Government’s decision to apply the new Decent Homes Standard to temporary accommodation. A national minimum standard covering all temporary accommodation will help to raise the quality of accommodation provided. However, while we recognise the need for an implementation period, we are concerned that the Government has not …
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We welcome the Government’s decision to apply the new Decent Homes Standard to temporary accommodation. A national minimum standard covering all temporary accommodation will help to raise the quality of accommodation provided. However, while we recognise the need for an implementation period, we are concerned that the Government has not set interim targets or milestones to make sure the sector is on track to comply with the new standard by 2035. (Conclusion, Paragraph 22) 61
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Government response AI summary
The government welcomes the application of the Decent Homes Standard to temporary accommodation and plans to apply the reformed standard wherever possible, noting current standards already apply. It acknowledges the need for an implementation period but doesn't set specific interim targets, instead committing to publish …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
4
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Rejected
We recommend that the Government set interim targets for the proportion of temporary accommodation that is upgraded to comply with the new Decent Homes Standard before the final implementation date in 2035. These should align with interim targets set for the wider private rented sector. (Recommendation, Paragraph 23)
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We recommend that the Government set interim targets for the proportion of temporary accommodation that is upgraded to comply with the new Decent Homes Standard before the final implementation date in 2035. These should align with interim targets set for the wider private rented sector. (Recommendation, Paragraph 23)
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Government response AI summary
The government effectively rejects setting interim targets for upgrading temporary accommodation to the new Decent Homes Standard, instead reiterating existing standards and commitments to apply the reformed standard and publish guidance by the end of 2026.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
5
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
The government’s plans to extend Awaab’s Law and the Decent Homes Standard to temporary accommodation will provide households with stronger protections against hazards and disrepair. However, while we wait for these reforms, the government should focus on ensuring that the protections that already exist are working effectively. This includes ensuring …
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The government’s plans to extend Awaab’s Law and the Decent Homes Standard to temporary accommodation will provide households with stronger protections against hazards and disrepair. However, while we wait for these reforms, the government should focus on ensuring that the protections that already exist are working effectively. This includes ensuring local authorities are delivering their statutory duty to ensure the suitability of temporary accommodation consistently. (Conclusion, Paragraph 26)
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Government response AI summary
The government agrees local authorities must deliver their statutory duty regarding suitability of temporary accommodation, stating that current legislation and the Homelessness Code of Guidance already outline requirements for authorities to review housing conditions and ensure accommodation is free of Category 1 hazards.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
6
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted in Part
The government must require local authorities to carry-out mandatory inspections before properties are first used as temporary accommodation, ahead of new households moving in and periodically thereafter. As we mentioned in our last report, the government should provide additional funding, in line with the new burdens doctrine, to local authorities …
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The government must require local authorities to carry-out mandatory inspections before properties are first used as temporary accommodation, ahead of new households moving in and periodically thereafter. As we mentioned in our last report, the government should provide additional funding, in line with the new burdens doctrine, to local authorities to ensure that they can carry out these inspections. (Recommendation, Paragraph 27)
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Government response AI summary
The government states existing guidance obliges housing authorities to review conditions and that good management involves inspections. It highlights a new power for local authorities (from summer 2026) to issue fines for Category 1 hazards in private rented temporary accommodation, but does not commit to …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
7
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Deferred
We welcome the government’s intention to apply Awaab’s Law to temporary accommodation. The power to take legal action against their provider for failing to resolve serious hazards in a timely manner will substantially strengthen the protections that exist for people living in temporary accommodation. However, a phased rollout is advisable …
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We welcome the government’s intention to apply Awaab’s Law to temporary accommodation. The power to take legal action against their provider for failing to resolve serious hazards in a timely manner will substantially strengthen the protections that exist for people living in temporary accommodation. However, a phased rollout is advisable to give providers time to ensure robust arrangements are in place to investigate and resolve hazards in a timely manner. (Conclusion, Paragraph 28)
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Government response AI summary
The government stated that Awaab's Law already applies to social rented temporary accommodation and they will soon consult on extending its scope to private rented temporary accommodation and those occupied under licence. They will consider the recommendation for a phased rollout as part of their …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
8
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Deferred
The government should begin to rollout Awaab’s Law urgently to ensure the regulations are fully applied to temporary accommodation by the end of 2028/29. By then, legal timescales must be in place covering all applicable significant and emergency hazards covered by the Housing, Health and Safety Rating System. (Recommendation, Paragraph …
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The government should begin to rollout Awaab’s Law urgently to ensure the regulations are fully applied to temporary accommodation by the end of 2028/29. By then, legal timescales must be in place covering all applicable significant and emergency hazards covered by the Housing, Health and Safety Rating System. (Recommendation, Paragraph 29) A lack of space
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Government response AI summary
The government states Awaab’s Law already applies to social housing tenancies used as temporary accommodation. For other temporary accommodation types, they will soon consult on extending the law's scope and will consider this recommendation as part of their consultation response.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
9
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
We are deeply concerned about the lack of space provided to some families living in temporary accommodation and the potentially harmful effects this can have on children’s safety, wellbeing and development. The standards used to determine if homes are statutorily overcrowded are out- of-date and do not reflect the harms …
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We are deeply concerned about the lack of space provided to some families living in temporary accommodation and the potentially harmful effects this can have on children’s safety, wellbeing and development. The standards used to determine if homes are statutorily overcrowded are out- of-date and do not reflect the harms a lack of space can pose to children. Part of the long-term solution to this is increasing the supply of social housing. However, in the meantime, the government needs to get a better 62 understanding of the extent of overcrowding in temporary accommodation and the negative consequences it has for people, especially children. (Conclusion, Paragraph 37)
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Government response AI summary
The government states that existing requirements address overcrowding but commits to working with the sector to better understand the issue, ensure enforcement guidance highlights overcrowding, and investigate options to improve data collection on overcrowding and hazards. They will also use the Emergency Accommodation Reduction Programme …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
10
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted in Part
The government must require all local authorities funded to carry out local audits to assess, and report on, the suitability of the space provided to households in different types of temporary accommodation and the impact the availability of this space has on children. The government should fund further audits, if …
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The government must require all local authorities funded to carry out local audits to assess, and report on, the suitability of the space provided to households in different types of temporary accommodation and the impact the availability of this space has on children. The government should fund further audits, if necessary, to build its understanding of the prevalence of overcrowding in temporary accommodation and the impact this has on households, especially children. We recommend that the government use the results of these audits to inform a review of the standards used to assess if homes are statutorily overcrowded. (Recommendation, Paragraph 38) Shared facilities
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Government response AI summary
The government states that existing requirements address overcrowding but commits to working with the sector to better understand the issue, ensure enforcement guidance highlights overcrowding, and investigate options to improve data collection on overcrowding and hazards to strengthen the evidence base.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
11
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
We agree with the government’s decision to prioritise eliminating the unlawful use of B&B accommodation by the end of the Parliament. The government and councils have made good progress at reducing the number of families living in B&B accommodation longer than six weeks. However, to deliver the government’s national target …
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We agree with the government’s decision to prioritise eliminating the unlawful use of B&B accommodation by the end of the Parliament. The government and councils have made good progress at reducing the number of families living in B&B accommodation longer than six weeks. However, to deliver the government’s national target locally, there are risks that councils may resort to increasing their use of out-of-area placements or other shared accommodation that is potentially unsuitable. Such actions risk substituting one set of harms for another. (Conclusion, Paragraph 45)
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledged the risk of councils moving families from B&Bs into other unsuitable accommodation or out-of-area placements. They committed to using the £30m Emergency Accommodation Reduction Programme, clarifying suitability guidance, setting expectations for councils on placements, and working with stakeholders to identify and tackle …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
12
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted in Part
The government must ensure that there are effective sanctions in place for local authorities who repeatedly breach the six-week limit and who are not taking reasonable steps to eliminate their use of B&Bs by the end of the Parliament. The government should publicly name councils who are unwilling to take …
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The government must ensure that there are effective sanctions in place for local authorities who repeatedly breach the six-week limit and who are not taking reasonable steps to eliminate their use of B&Bs by the end of the Parliament. The government should publicly name councils who are unwilling to take reasonable steps to eliminate their unlawful use of B&Bs. The government should introduce safeguards to prevent councils from using out-of-area placements or other types of shared accommodation as a way of meeting the government’s national target. (Recommendation, Paragraph 46)
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Government response AI summary
The government states that data on councils breaching the six-week B&B limit is already published and they will use existing escalation routes to address poor performance and call out councils. They also commit to clarifying expectations for out-of-area placements and engaging with stakeholders to address …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
13
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
We remain concerned that the definition of B&B in the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) (England) Order 2003 does not prevent families being placed in similar accommodation, without any restrictions on the time local authorities can house them there. We recognise that the availability of support in council-owned or voluntary sector …
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We remain concerned that the definition of B&B in the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) (England) Order 2003 does not prevent families being placed in similar accommodation, without any restrictions on the time local authorities can house them there. We recognise that the availability of support in council-owned or voluntary sector hostels may benefit some households and help them transition back to living independently. These facilities should only be used as emergency 63 accommodation and for short periods, unless there is an exceptional reason for doing so and the risks are effectively managed. (Conclusion, Paragraph 50)
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Government response AI summary
The government states its commitment to eliminating unlawful B&B use and will review the use of socially managed hostel accommodation, considering further action to reduce or regulate its use and improve practice.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
14
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Rejected
We reiterate our earlier recommendation that the ministry must amend the definition of B&B accommodation in the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) (England) Order 2003 to restrict the placement of families in other types of accommodation with shared facilities to a maximum of six weeks. (Recommendation, Paragraph 51)
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We reiterate our earlier recommendation that the ministry must amend the definition of B&B accommodation in the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) (England) Order 2003 to restrict the placement of families in other types of accommodation with shared facilities to a maximum of six weeks. (Recommendation, Paragraph 51)
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Government response AI summary
The government rejected amending the B&B definition to restrict all shared-facility accommodation for families to six weeks, stating that some local authority-owned or commissioned shared facilities can be suitable. They will, however, review the use of socially managed hostel accommodation to consider further action to …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
15
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Rejected
The ministry must require councils to report publicly on the length of time households remain in such facilities and justify any decision to keep households in these facilities beyond six-weeks. By the end of this year, the ministry must publish a clear 10-year plan to phase out the use of …
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The ministry must require councils to report publicly on the length of time households remain in such facilities and justify any decision to keep households in these facilities beyond six-weeks. By the end of this year, the ministry must publish a clear 10-year plan to phase out the use of accommodation with shared facilities for families with children. (Recommendation, Paragraph 52)
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Government response AI summary
The government rejected publishing a 10-year plan to phase out all shared accommodation for families, stating they lack evidence to support this, but are engaging stakeholders to identify problematic forms. They stated they are already tracking B&B use beyond six weeks and will clarify reporting …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
16
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted in Part
We remain concerned that there is no explicit rule to prevent or restrict councils from housing families, including single mothers with children, in accommodation where they need to share facilities with single male adults. (Conclusion, Paragraph 55)
Government response AI summary
The government agrees that safeguarding risks must be mitigated and will engage with the sector to consider amending guidance to ensure it is absolutely clear that children's safety must be prioritised in temporary accommodation.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
17
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Acknowledged
The ministry must update the statutory guidance to make clear that placing families in accommodation where the need to share facilities with single male adults is not suitable and should work with councils to bring such placements to an end. (Recommendation, Paragraph 56) Lack of basic facilities and furnishings
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The ministry must update the statutory guidance to make clear that placing families in accommodation where the need to share facilities with single male adults is not suitable and should work with councils to bring such placements to an end. (Recommendation, Paragraph 56) Lack of basic facilities and furnishings
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Government response AI summary
The government agrees on the importance of safeguarding and minimizing risks, stating current guidance prohibits B&Bs for families. They commit to engaging with the sector to consider whether further guidance amendments are needed to clarify that placements for children must minimize safeguarding risks.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
18
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Deferred
It is not acceptable for households in temporary accommodation to be left living for months, if not longer, without access to the basic facilities they need for daily life. The ministry must introduce further measures to improve households’ access to basic facilities, such as kitchens, washing machines and basic furnishings. …
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It is not acceptable for households in temporary accommodation to be left living for months, if not longer, without access to the basic facilities they need for daily life. The ministry must introduce further measures to improve households’ access to basic facilities, such as kitchens, washing machines and basic furnishings. (Conclusion, Paragraph 63)
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Government response AI summary
The government commits to engaging with the sector and reviewing how to implement the Decent Homes Standard across temporary accommodation, but defers a decision on specific amendments or routes until further consideration.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
19
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Acknowledged
We welcome the government’s decision to apply the Decent Homes Standard to temporary accommodation. However, we are concerned that the standard will not guarantee people housed in some types of temporary accommodation access to the basic facilities, such as a kitchen, that they need for daily life. (Conclusion, Paragraph 64)
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We welcome the government’s decision to apply the Decent Homes Standard to temporary accommodation. However, we are concerned that the standard will not guarantee people housed in some types of temporary accommodation access to the basic facilities, such as a kitchen, that they need for daily life. (Conclusion, Paragraph 64)
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledged the concern, stating the Decent Homes Standard already applies to social landlord temporary accommodation. They committed to engaging with the sector to implement the standard across different temporary accommodation types and are reviewing compliance and considering amending the Suitability Order.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
20
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Deferred
We recommend that the Secretary of State amend the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) Order 2003 to extend the six-week limit to accommodation that cannot comply with the new Decent Homes Standard. The six-week limit should apply from the date that the new standard comes into force in 2035. The ministry …
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We recommend that the Secretary of State amend the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation) Order 2003 to extend the six-week limit to accommodation that cannot comply with the new Decent Homes Standard. The six-week limit should apply from the date that the new standard comes into force in 2035. The ministry also must require local authorities to report 64 publicly when they have suspended enforcement action or applied hazard awareness notices to ensure properties that do not fully comply with the standard remain a last resort. (Recommendation, Paragraph 65) Complex needs
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Government response AI summary
The government will engage with the sector to understand how to implement the Decent Homes Standard across temporary accommodation and review compliance, but is not yet in a position to confirm amending the Suitability Order, though it will be considered.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
21
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
We are alarmed to hear of people with physical disabilities, medical conditions and other complex needs being placed in accommodation that is unsuitable for them. Part of the solution to this problem is improving the quality of supply available locally. In the short-term, however, this is another reason why mandatory …
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We are alarmed to hear of people with physical disabilities, medical conditions and other complex needs being placed in accommodation that is unsuitable for them. Part of the solution to this problem is improving the quality of supply available locally. In the short-term, however, this is another reason why mandatory inspections are needed before people are placed in temporary accommodation. (Conclusion, Paragraph 72)
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Government response AI summary
The government accepts the importance of suitable accommodation for those with complex needs, stating it will review and update the Care Act 2014 statutory guidance and publish new support guidance to improve clarity and joined-up practice across services by 2026.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
22
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted in Part
The government must require local authorities to conduct mandatory inspections before placing households in temporary accommodation to determine that the accommodation they have arranged adequately caters for people’s physical and medical needs. The Government should also strengthen the statutory guidance for local authorities on the arrangements that should be put …
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The government must require local authorities to conduct mandatory inspections before placing households in temporary accommodation to determine that the accommodation they have arranged adequately caters for people’s physical and medical needs. The Government should also strengthen the statutory guidance for local authorities on the arrangements that should be put in place to support those with complex needs or who may be more at risk from living in temporary accommodation. (Recommendation, Paragraph 73)
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Government response AI summary
The government does not commit to mandatory inspections before placement but states that good temporary accommodation management involves inspections. It commits to strengthening statutory guidance by reviewing and updating the Care Act 2014 guidance and publishing new support guidance to improve practice for those with …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
23
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted in Part
The ministry should require councils to forecast demand for people with complex needs as part of their action plans to highlight where there are gaps in provision and demonstrate how the funds allocated through the Local Authority Housing Fund are being used to fill gaps in available provision. The Government …
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The ministry should require councils to forecast demand for people with complex needs as part of their action plans to highlight where there are gaps in provision and demonstrate how the funds allocated through the Local Authority Housing Fund are being used to fill gaps in available provision. The Government must also require local authorities to ensure that all new temporary accommodation built with these funds meets Part M4 (2) of the Building Regulations. (Recommendation, Paragraph 74)
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Government response AI summary
The government states that local authorities are developing supported housing strategies that will forecast demand for complex needs, and these plans will be published. Regarding M4(2) standards, they consulted on proposals for a national minimum of 40% new housing to meet M4(2) standards and are …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
24
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
In response to this report, we request an update on the options the Government is considering to increase the supply of good-quality supported housing, as part of the Chief Secretary of the Treasury’s review. (Recommendation, Paragraph 75) Managing and improving the supply of temporary accommodation
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In response to this report, we request an update on the options the Government is considering to increase the supply of good-quality supported housing, as part of the Chief Secretary of the Treasury’s review. (Recommendation, Paragraph 75) Managing and improving the supply of temporary accommodation
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Government response AI summary
The government accepted the request for an update, stating they are considering supported housing as part of the Thematic Value for Money Review. They highlighted ongoing actions, including £159 million in funding and published guidance for local authorities, and committed to providing continued updates to …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
25
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Deferred
The rules that determine the amount of money councils can claim through the Housing Benefit subsidy system is restricting their ability to source good-quality temporary accommodation for households. The Department for Work and Pension’s ongoing freeze of the subsidy rates is putting an enormous financial strain on councils. The freeze …
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The rules that determine the amount of money councils can claim through the Housing Benefit subsidy system is restricting their ability to source good-quality temporary accommodation for households. The Department for Work and Pension’s ongoing freeze of the subsidy rates is putting an enormous financial strain on councils. The freeze in subsidy rates limits the range of affordable options available to councils and acts as a disincentive 65 for them to enter longer-term leases that could strengthen their ability to raise standards, due to the risk of being exposed to large costs on their general funds. Within a financially constrained environment, we are also concerned that the rates reimbursed for different types of accommodation create an incentive for councils to place households in accommodation with support they may not need. (Conclusion, Paragraph 81)
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Government response AI summary
The government states the DWP is keeping Housing Benefit subsidy levels under review and commits to considering the best way to sustainably fund good-quality temporary accommodation, linking it to a thematic review on homelessness.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
26
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Deferred
We recommend that the Department for Work and Pensions unfreeze the subsidy rates by increasing the rate councils are reimbursed to match the current Local Housing Allowance rate. We also recommend that the Government conduct a detailed review of the subsidy rules to ensure they incentivise councils to source good-quality …
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We recommend that the Department for Work and Pensions unfreeze the subsidy rates by increasing the rate councils are reimbursed to match the current Local Housing Allowance rate. We also recommend that the Government conduct a detailed review of the subsidy rules to ensure they incentivise councils to source good-quality accommodation. (Recommendation, Paragraph 82)
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Government response AI summary
The government stated that the Department for Work and Pensions is keeping Housing Benefit subsidy levels under review, with future decisions dependent on government missions and fiscal context, rather than committing to unfreezing rates to match LHA. They are also committed to considering sustainable funding …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
27
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Acknowledged
Competition between local authorities and other public bodies drives up the costs of temporary accommodation and restricts the ability of local authorities to raise standards locally. We are pleased that the ministry is working with the Home Office to test ways to reduce competition between public bodies for residential accommodation. …
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Competition between local authorities and other public bodies drives up the costs of temporary accommodation and restricts the ability of local authorities to raise standards locally. We are pleased that the ministry is working with the Home Office to test ways to reduce competition between public bodies for residential accommodation. However, we are disappointed that the National Plan to End Homelessness did not include a firmer stance on eliminating this unhelpful practice. (Conclusion, Paragraph 86)
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the concern about competition driving up temporary accommodation costs, stating it is working to explore a value-for-money model for asylum accommodation and using crown land to mitigate issues and reduce homelessness risk.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
28
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Not Addressed
In response to this report, the ministry should provide us with an update on the work it is undertaking to test locally-led approaches to reduce competition between public bodies and state when, and how, it intends to roll these out more widely. (Recommendation, Paragraph 87)
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In response to this report, the ministry should provide us with an update on the work it is undertaking to test locally-led approaches to reduce competition between public bodies and state when, and how, it intends to roll these out more widely. (Recommendation, Paragraph 87)
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Government response AI summary
The government's response discusses broader asylum accommodation reforms and the use of crown land, but does not provide the requested update on locally-led approaches to reduce competition between public bodies or state plans for wider rollout.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
29
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Acknowledged
We are concerned about councils’ increasing reliance on privately managed, nightly-paid accommodation. This provision is not merely expensive. The use of nightly-paid accommodation limits councils’ ability to raise standards and offers little stability to households who are at risk of being moved at short notice. (Conclusion, Paragraph 90)
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We are concerned about councils’ increasing reliance on privately managed, nightly-paid accommodation. This provision is not merely expensive. The use of nightly-paid accommodation limits councils’ ability to raise standards and offers little stability to households who are at risk of being moved at short notice. (Conclusion, Paragraph 90)
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the concern regarding expensive, poor-quality nightly-paid accommodation and states it is considering incentives for local authorities to enter better value, longer-term arrangements as part of a review.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
30
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
The government must require local authorities in their action plans to set out how they plan to reduce their reliance on nightly-paid accommodation and provide updates on their progress. The government should also work with local authorities to understand the barriers that are preventing councils from entering longer-term arrangements with …
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The government must require local authorities in their action plans to set out how they plan to reduce their reliance on nightly-paid accommodation and provide updates on their progress. The government should also work with local authorities to understand the barriers that are preventing councils from entering longer-term arrangements with landlords. (Recommendation, Paragraph 91)
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Government response AI summary
The government stated that local authorities are already required through grant conditions and an accountability toolkit to produce policies and action plans detailing how they will reduce reliance on expensive temporary accommodation. They are also considering incentives for longer-term arrangements as part of the Thematic …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
31
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Acknowledged
We remained concerned the government’s decision to freeze the Local Housing Allowance is contributing to more people being more at risk of homelessness and in need of temporary accommodation. The freeze also makes it difficult for councils to help households find a permanent home they can afford. (Conclusion, Paragraph 93) …
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We remained concerned the government’s decision to freeze the Local Housing Allowance is contributing to more people being more at risk of homelessness and in need of temporary accommodation. The freeze also makes it difficult for councils to help households find a permanent home they can afford. (Conclusion, Paragraph 93) 66
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges concerns about the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) freeze, stating it will keep LHA rates under review and notes that rates were set to the 30th percentile from April 2024. It also points to the Crisis Resilience Fund Housing Payment for additional support.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
32
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
We recommend that the Government restore the Local Housing Allowance rates to 30th percentile. (Recommendation, Paragraph 94)
Government response AI summary
The government states that Local Housing Allowance rates were already set to the 30th percentile of local market rents from April 2024, fulfilling the recommendation.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
33
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
We agree with the government that some degree of temporary accommodation will always be needed as a safety net and that this accommodation must provide households who need it with a decent, safe and stable place to live while they find a more permanent home. It is critical that the …
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We agree with the government that some degree of temporary accommodation will always be needed as a safety net and that this accommodation must provide households who need it with a decent, safe and stable place to live while they find a more permanent home. It is critical that the steps councils are taking to increase the supply are informed by, and consistent with, a more long-term strategy, locally and nationally. (Conclusion, Paragraph 99)
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Government response AI summary
The government states that existing guidance (Local Government and Accountability Toolkit) already requires local authorities to have long-term plans for temporary accommodation, and they are continuing to explore options to support councils and share effective demand forecasting approaches.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
34
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
The ministry should require local authorities in their action plans to forecast future demand for temporary accommodation locally and set out a 10- year plan for delivering a sustainable supply of good-quality temporary accommodation that is decent, safe and stable. (Recommendation, Paragraph 100)
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The ministry should require local authorities in their action plans to forecast future demand for temporary accommodation locally and set out a 10- year plan for delivering a sustainable supply of good-quality temporary accommodation that is decent, safe and stable. (Recommendation, Paragraph 100)
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Government response AI summary
The government states that local authorities are already required to have policies for procuring temporary accommodation, including assessing anticipated demand and having a long-term plan, as detailed in the Local Government and Accountability Toolkit. It will continue to explore options and share effective demand forecasting …
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
35
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
We welcome the extra funding the Government has provided through the Local Authority Housing Fund to help councils increase the supply of temporary accommodation. However, boosting the supply of affordable homes, especially social housing, is critical to alleviating the crisis in temporary accommodation. (Conclusion, Paragraph 101)
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We welcome the extra funding the Government has provided through the Local Authority Housing Fund to help councils increase the supply of temporary accommodation. However, boosting the supply of affordable homes, especially social housing, is critical to alleviating the crisis in temporary accommodation. (Conclusion, Paragraph 101)
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the criticality of boosting affordable and social housing supply, confirming a £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme (2026-2036) with an ambition to deliver 300,000 homes, at least 60% for social rent, to tackle homelessness.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
36
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Accepted
We recommend that the government set out how they plan to prioritise bids for grant funding through the Social and Affordable Homes Programme, including how they will take into account value for money. (Recommendation, Paragraph 102)
Government response AI summary
The government states that Homes England and the Greater London Authority have already published full guidance and assessment criteria for the Social and Affordable Homes Programme, detailing how bids are assessed and how value for money is considered.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
37
Conclusion
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Acknowledged
We welcome the efforts that the ministry is taking to improve the physical condition of temporary accommodation. However, if providers choose to sell properties that are too costly to upgrade or try to take advantage of regulatory gaps between tenures, these efforts could adversely impact supply. (Conclusion, Paragraph 105)
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We welcome the efforts that the ministry is taking to improve the physical condition of temporary accommodation. However, if providers choose to sell properties that are too costly to upgrade or try to take advantage of regulatory gaps between tenures, these efforts could adversely impact supply. (Conclusion, Paragraph 105)
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the risk that interventions to raise temporary accommodation standards could adversely impact supply, outlining its National Plan to End Homelessness, including a £950 million fund and exploring partnerships to invest in quality accommodation.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
38
Recommendation
5th Report - Housing Conditions in Temp…
Not Addressed
Alongside the first update on the progress of the National Plan to End Homelessness, we recommend that the ministry publish an assessment of the cumulative impact the interventions to raise standards could have on the supply of temporary accommodation. (Recommendation, Paragraph 106) 67
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Alongside the first update on the progress of the National Plan to End Homelessness, we recommend that the ministry publish an assessment of the cumulative impact the interventions to raise standards could have on the supply of temporary accommodation. (Recommendation, Paragraph 106) 67
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Government response AI summary
The government provided a generic statement about continuing to meet requirements for conducting impact assessments for government policies, but did not commit to publishing the specific cumulative impact assessment requested.
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
1
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We welcome the government’s plans to raise the standard of homes in the privately rented sector over the next decade. While most renters are satisfied with their homes, a substantial minority of private renters are living in homes that are sub-standard. Poor conditions in the private rented sector are symptomatic …
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We welcome the government’s plans to raise the standard of homes in the privately rented sector over the next decade. While most renters are satisfied with their homes, a substantial minority of private renters are living in homes that are sub-standard. Poor conditions in the private rented sector are symptomatic of the country’s wider housing crisis, especially the lack of social and affordable housing. (Conclusion, Paragraph 27)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
2
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We urge the government to publish the long-awaited long-term housing strategy by the end of September 2026. We will be assessing whether the strategy addresses the drivers that contribute to poor housing across the country, including in the private rented sector. (Recommendation, Paragraph 28) Raising standards
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We urge the government to publish the long-awaited long-term housing strategy by the end of September 2026. We will be assessing whether the strategy addresses the drivers that contribute to poor housing across the country, including in the private rented sector. (Recommendation, Paragraph 28) Raising standards
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
3
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We welcome the government’s decision to apply the new Decent Homes Standard to privately rented homes. The government has a difficult balance to strike between the need to deliver better homes to tenants quickly while allowing landlords the time they need to upgrade their homes. Regrettably, the ministry’s impact assessment …
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We welcome the government’s decision to apply the new Decent Homes Standard to privately rented homes. The government has a difficult balance to strike between the need to deliver better homes to tenants quickly while allowing landlords the time they need to upgrade their homes. Regrettably, the ministry’s impact assessment assumes that landlords are likely to wait until shortly before the standard comes into effect in 2035 before upgrading their properties. With over 1 million privately rented homes estimated to be below the existing Decent Homes Standard, we are concerned that many renters will be waiting a long time for their homes to be improved. The government should establish incentives to encourage landlords to upgrade their homes sooner. (Conclusion, Paragraph 41)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
4
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The effectiveness of the government’s plans to apply the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector rests on how effectively local authorities enforce this standard. We are disappointed that the government only plans to place a duty on local authorities to take enforcement action when Criterion A is breached. …
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The effectiveness of the government’s plans to apply the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector rests on how effectively local authorities enforce this standard. We are disappointed that the government only plans to place a duty on local authorities to take enforcement action when Criterion A is breached. This fails to provide sufficient additional 80 protection to tenants. A stronger deterrent could act as an incentive for landlords to ensure their properties comply with the new standard. (Conclusion, Paragraph 42)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
5
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We recommend that the government place a duty on local authorities to take enforcement action against any breach of the new Decent Homes Standard, not just breaches of Criterion A. This will act as a stronger incentive for landlords to comply. (Recommendation, Paragraph 43)
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We recommend that the government place a duty on local authorities to take enforcement action against any breach of the new Decent Homes Standard, not just breaches of Criterion A. This will act as a stronger incentive for landlords to comply. (Recommendation, Paragraph 43)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
6
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The new Private Rented Sector Database provides a useful mechanism for landlords to proactively demonstrate that their properties comply with existing and upcoming standards, including the Decent Homes Standard. This is not a substitute for strong, proactive enforcement. However, we are of the view that the database could provide a …
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The new Private Rented Sector Database provides a useful mechanism for landlords to proactively demonstrate that their properties comply with existing and upcoming standards, including the Decent Homes Standard. This is not a substitute for strong, proactive enforcement. However, we are of the view that the database could provide a useful mechanism to drive up standards, especially as the Act includes provisions designed to deter landlords from providing false information. (Conclusion, Paragraph 44)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
7
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We recommend that the new Private Rented Sector Database allows private landlords to self-declare that their properties comply with the new Decent Homes Standard at the earliest opportunity. Using the database in this way would allow landlords who already comply to differentiate themselves from their competitors and encourage early adoption …
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We recommend that the new Private Rented Sector Database allows private landlords to self-declare that their properties comply with the new Decent Homes Standard at the earliest opportunity. Using the database in this way would allow landlords who already comply to differentiate themselves from their competitors and encourage early adoption among others. To deter landlords from falsely declaring compliance, local authorities should be supported to use their powers to investigate landlords’ self-declarations and take enforcement action against landlords who falsely declare compliance, especially if they do so knowingly and continuously. The database should also provide an easy mechanism for tenants to report self-declarations they suspect are false. (Recommendation, Paragraph 45)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
8
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We welcome the government’s decision to introduce stronger minimum energy efficiency standards that private landlords will need to comply with from 2030. This will help to lift households out of fuel poverty and reduce their exposure to the health risks of living in a cold home. Overall, our view that …
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We welcome the government’s decision to introduce stronger minimum energy efficiency standards that private landlords will need to comply with from 2030. This will help to lift households out of fuel poverty and reduce their exposure to the health risks of living in a cold home. Overall, our view that is that the government has taken proportionate steps in the final design that will help ensure the new standard delivers benefits for tenants without adversely impacting supply. However, we are concerned that the effectiveness of the new standard, and the public’s confidence in it, will be undermined if local authorities are not adequately resourced to enforce it. (Conclusion, Paragraph 53)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
9
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The government must ensure local authorities are adequately resourced to ensure landlords comply with the new standard. More detail on this is set out in Chapter 5. (Recommendation, Paragraph 54)
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
10
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We welcome the government’s decision to apply Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector. While landlords are already required to keep their homes free from serious hazards, Awaab’s Law will strengthen this protection 81 by establishing clear timeframes landlords need to meet to make their homes safe. We are disappointed, …
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We welcome the government’s decision to apply Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector. While landlords are already required to keep their homes free from serious hazards, Awaab’s Law will strengthen this protection 81 by establishing clear timeframes landlords need to meet to make their homes safe. We are disappointed, however, that the government has not yet committed to a clear timeframe for introducing these protections. (Conclusion, Paragraph 61)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
11
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We recommend that the government should begin rolling out Awaab’s Law in the private rented sector this year to ensure that these legal protections are fully in place across the private rented sector by the end of 2028/29. (Recommendation, Paragraph 62) Empowering tenants
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We recommend that the government should begin rolling out Awaab’s Law in the private rented sector this year to ensure that these legal protections are fully in place across the private rented sector by the end of 2028/29. (Recommendation, Paragraph 62) Empowering tenants
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
12
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The abolition of Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 will go long way to give tenants greater confidence to complain about poor housing conditions without the worry that their landlord will evict them. However, tenants are still vulnerable to the risk of a retaliatory rent increase that they cannot …
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The abolition of Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 will go long way to give tenants greater confidence to complain about poor housing conditions without the worry that their landlord will evict them. However, tenants are still vulnerable to the risk of a retaliatory rent increase that they cannot afford. With many renters already struggling to afford their rent, retaliatory rent increases could act as a form of economic eviction. We are not currently convinced that stricter measures to stabilise rents would be a proportionate step to mitigate this risk, due to the potential consequences this could have on the supply of affordable properties. (Conclusion, Paragraph 71)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
13
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The government’s immediate priority must be to ensure the protections that are in place against above-market rent increases through the First- Tier Tribunal are functioning effectively. Tenants must have confidence that the tribunal will settle challenges quickly and accurately. To support the effectiveness of the First-tier Tribunal, we recommend that: …
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The government’s immediate priority must be to ensure the protections that are in place against above-market rent increases through the First- Tier Tribunal are functioning effectively. Tenants must have confidence that the tribunal will settle challenges quickly and accurately. To support the effectiveness of the First-tier Tribunal, we recommend that: a. the government accelerate the establishment of a new body or mechanism to make initial rent determinations; b. require landlords to include current advertised rents and rent histories on the private rented sector database; and c. conduct an initial review of the performance of the First-Tier Tribunal to be published by 1 May 2027 to assess if these protections are working effectively. (Recommendation, Paragraph 72)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
14
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We welcome the creation of a new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman. If implemented well, we are confident that the new ombudsman will provide an effective alternative route for redress. However, the government needs to provide further clarity on how the new ombudsman will interact with other parts of the regulatory …
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We welcome the creation of a new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman. If implemented well, we are confident that the new ombudsman will provide an effective alternative route for redress. However, the government needs to provide further clarity on how the new ombudsman will interact with other parts of the regulatory system, especially local authorities. (Conclusion, Paragraph 75) 82
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
15
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
In its official response to this report, we request that the government provide more information about how the new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman will interact with local authorities and the courts. (Recommendation, Paragraph 76)
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
16
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We welcome the creation of a private rented sector database. The private rented sector database provides an opportunity to empower prospective and existing tenants with comprehensive information on the fitness of landlords and the quality of the privately rented homes as well as educate tenants on their rights and enable …
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We welcome the creation of a private rented sector database. The private rented sector database provides an opportunity to empower prospective and existing tenants with comprehensive information on the fitness of landlords and the quality of the privately rented homes as well as educate tenants on their rights and enable them to report concerns. While we do not wish to delay the rollout of the database, our view is that the government should be more ambitious on the role this database can play. We would like to see further information and functionalities added over time. (Conclusion, Paragraph 79)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
17
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The government must ensure that the private rented sector database includes, as a minimum, information on the condition and accessibility of privately rented properties, including details of previous enforcement actions, and the current rent and rent histories. Following the initial rollout, we recommend that the database is developed to provide …
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The government must ensure that the private rented sector database includes, as a minimum, information on the condition and accessibility of privately rented properties, including details of previous enforcement actions, and the current rent and rent histories. Following the initial rollout, we recommend that the database is developed to provide tenants with guidance on their legal rights and enable them to report concerns to their local authority. (Recommendation, Paragraph 80)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
18
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The government is taking positive steps through the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 to empower tenants. While we support the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, we are concerned too much onus remains on individuals to take action against their landlord, either through to courts or soon by approaching the ombudsman for redress. …
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The government is taking positive steps through the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 to empower tenants. While we support the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, we are concerned too much onus remains on individuals to take action against their landlord, either through to courts or soon by approaching the ombudsman for redress. This approach risks neglecting the most vulnerable tenants, especially those at the lowest end of the market where poor conditions are concentrated and vulnerable tenants who may be targeted by rogue landlords seeking to exploit them. For this reason, we are in favour of stronger, more proactive regulation and enforcement of standards in the private rented sector. This is covered in more detail in Chapter 5. (Conclusion, Paragraph 85)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
19
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We are concerned that the effectiveness of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 could be undermined if courts are not ready and sufficiently resourced to cope with the new demands for housing cases. (Conclusion, Paragraph 87)
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
20
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We recommend that the government publish the metrics it will use to assess whether the courts are coping with the new demands placed on them by the Renters’ Rights Act and regularly report on their progress. (Recommendation, Paragraph 88) 83 Supporting landlords
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We recommend that the government publish the metrics it will use to assess whether the courts are coping with the new demands placed on them by the Renters’ Rights Act and regularly report on their progress. (Recommendation, Paragraph 88) 83 Supporting landlords
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
21
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
Most landlords recognise their responsibility to provide tenants with a safe, decent and comfortable home. The government nationally and locally has a role to reduce unintentional non-compliance by educating landlords about their legal responsibilities and supporting them to adopt more professional practices. Nationally, the forthcoming Private Rented Sector Database has …
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Most landlords recognise their responsibility to provide tenants with a safe, decent and comfortable home. The government nationally and locally has a role to reduce unintentional non-compliance by educating landlords about their legal responsibilities and supporting them to adopt more professional practices. Nationally, the forthcoming Private Rented Sector Database has the potential to be a useful tool to reduce unintentional non-compliance by providing guidance and training to landlords about their legal responsibilities and encouraging them to undertake works that will ensure their properties meet the required standard. There is also a role for local authorities and strategic authorities to proactively support landlords to ensure their properties meet required standards. (Conclusion, Paragraph 94)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
22
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The government must ensure that the private rented sector database provides a useful tool to educate and better inform landlords about their role and responsibilities and encourage them to adopt more professional practices. The database must include information and guidance to landlords on their responsibilities. Over time, the database should …
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The government must ensure that the private rented sector database provides a useful tool to educate and better inform landlords about their role and responsibilities and encourage them to adopt more professional practices. The database must include information and guidance to landlords on their responsibilities. Over time, the database should be adapted to notify landlords of the introduction of new standards and steps they can take to comply. (Recommendation, Paragraph 95)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
23
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The government should provide local authorities and strategic authorities with a ring-fenced portion of the fees from the Private Rented Sector Database to support them to adopt initiatives, such as the Good Landlords Charter, that help tackle unintentional non-compliance among landlords. (Recommendation, Paragraph 96) Regulation and enforcement
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The government should provide local authorities and strategic authorities with a ring-fenced portion of the fees from the Private Rented Sector Database to support them to adopt initiatives, such as the Good Landlords Charter, that help tackle unintentional non-compliance among landlords. (Recommendation, Paragraph 96) Regulation and enforcement
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
24
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We are disappointed to hear a postcode lottery of local authority regulation and enforcement of standards in the private rented sector has persisted for many years. Far too many local authorities are failing to protect tenants and provide a meaningful deterrent against rogue landlords. While local authorities should continue to …
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We are disappointed to hear a postcode lottery of local authority regulation and enforcement of standards in the private rented sector has persisted for many years. Far too many local authorities are failing to protect tenants and provide a meaningful deterrent against rogue landlords. While local authorities should continue to have discretion over the way they regulate their local private rented markets, the government must do more to ensure councils are held accountable for their performance. (Conclusion, Paragraph 107)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
25
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The government must require councils to publish annual reports on the regulation and enforcement of their local private rented markets, including information on their inspection and enforcement activity. Doing so will enable better scrutiny and accountability of local authorities’ activities and responsibilities in each area. (Recommendation, Paragraph 108) 84
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The government must require councils to publish annual reports on the regulation and enforcement of their local private rented markets, including information on their inspection and enforcement activity. Doing so will enable better scrutiny and accountability of local authorities’ activities and responsibilities in each area. (Recommendation, Paragraph 108) 84
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
26
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We are concerned that many local authorities do not have enough suitability skilled staff to robustly regulate and enforce standards in their private rented markets. If not addressed this problem threatens to undermine the steps the government is taking to raise standards and the effectiveness of other reforms introduced by …
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We are concerned that many local authorities do not have enough suitability skilled staff to robustly regulate and enforce standards in their private rented markets. If not addressed this problem threatens to undermine the steps the government is taking to raise standards and the effectiveness of other reforms introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act. (Conclusion, Paragraph 113)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
27
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The government must conduct and publish a full assessment of the resources and powers currently available to local authorities to regulate and enforce standards in the private rented sector, including the new duties placed on local authorities under the Renters Rights Act. The assessment should consider the resources that will …
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The government must conduct and publish a full assessment of the resources and powers currently available to local authorities to regulate and enforce standards in the private rented sector, including the new duties placed on local authorities under the Renters Rights Act. The assessment should consider the resources that will be necessary to allow local authorities to adopt a more proactive approach to regulating standards. (Recommendation, Paragraph 114)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
28
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
Councils need sustainable, predictable sources of revenue to fund a much- need expansion of regulatory activity. In principle, our view is that the costs of regulating the private rented sector should be borne by all landlords, not just those who breach the law. We fully support the government’s intention to …
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Councils need sustainable, predictable sources of revenue to fund a much- need expansion of regulatory activity. In principle, our view is that the costs of regulating the private rented sector should be borne by all landlords, not just those who breach the law. We fully support the government’s intention to use registration fees from the Private Rented Sector Database as way of funding local authorities’ regulation of the private rented sector, although in practice it is possible that these costs could also be passed on to tenants. It critical that an increase in funding from landlords through fees comes with greater transparency and accountability over local authorities’ performance. (Conclusion, Paragraph 117)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
29
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
The government must ensure the fees landlords need to pay to register on the Private Rented Sector Database are sufficient to fund a substantial increase in local authority capacity. The government should then use this income to provide an annual ringfenced amount to local authorities to help fund their regulatory …
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The government must ensure the fees landlords need to pay to register on the Private Rented Sector Database are sufficient to fund a substantial increase in local authority capacity. The government should then use this income to provide an annual ringfenced amount to local authorities to help fund their regulatory activities. (Recommendation, Paragraph 118)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
30
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
Selective licensing remains a useful tool that local authorities can use to proactively target enforcement activity at areas with the poorest housing conditions. The new Private Rented Sector Database has the potential to complement selective licensing by helping local authorities to target their resources even more effectively at the areas …
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Selective licensing remains a useful tool that local authorities can use to proactively target enforcement activity at areas with the poorest housing conditions. The new Private Rented Sector Database has the potential to complement selective licensing by helping local authorities to target their resources even more effectively at the areas with the poorest housing. More targeted enforcement can help protect the most vulnerable tenants, who may struggle to advocate for themselves and exercise their rights. It is right that local authorities can chose whether to introduce selective licensing schemes. However, we would like to see more local authorities making use of these powers. The government can help by removing barriers that inhibit the uptake and effectiveness of these schemes. (Conclusion, Paragraph 123) 85
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
31
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We welcome the government’s decision to remove the need for local authorities to seek approval from the Secretary of State before establishing selective licensing schemes. The government needs to go further to remove further barriers that inhibit the uptake and effectiveness of selecting licensing. We recommend that the government should: …
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We welcome the government’s decision to remove the need for local authorities to seek approval from the Secretary of State before establishing selective licensing schemes. The government needs to go further to remove further barriers that inhibit the uptake and effectiveness of selecting licensing. We recommend that the government should: • extend the maximum length of time for selective licensing schemes to 10 years. Within this period, councils should be required to periodically review their schemes to ensure they remain effective and proportionate. • allow councils to apply to selective licensing schemes regardless of whether the PRS makes up a significant proportion of local housing market or not. • enable local authorities to set licenses conditions that require landlords to make improvements to the physical state of licensed properties. (Recommendation, Paragraph 124) Impact on the supply and affordability of homes
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
32
Conclusion
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
Overall, our view is that the Renters’ Rights Act and other reforms to raise standards constitute a proportionate package of measures that will improve housing conditions for tenants, without having a substantial adverse impact on supply. These reforms need to be a complemented by measures to give greater protections to …
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Overall, our view is that the Renters’ Rights Act and other reforms to raise standards constitute a proportionate package of measures that will improve housing conditions for tenants, without having a substantial adverse impact on supply. These reforms need to be a complemented by measures to give greater protections to renters at the lowest end of the market, who are more vulnerable to rent increases and other potential unintended consequences. (Conclusion, Paragraph 136)
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
33
Recommendation
4th Report - Housing Conditions in the …
We remain of the view that the government should unfreeze the Local Housing Allowance and ensure it matches at least the 30th percentile of market rents to protect households on lower incomes. Doing so will help reduce the risk of rent increases leading to households on the lowest incomes being …
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We remain of the view that the government should unfreeze the Local Housing Allowance and ensure it matches at least the 30th percentile of market rents to protect households on lower incomes. Doing so will help reduce the risk of rent increases leading to households on the lowest incomes being displaced into poorer accommodation or made homeless. (Recommendation, Paragraph 137) 86
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Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government