In response to Andy Burnham's announcement that councils will be empowered to take over poorly maintained homes if landlords fail to address issues, Propertymark, the professional body for estate and letting agents, has called for further clarity on the proposal's implementation. Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark, emphasised the importance of addressing substandard properties through collaboration between local authorities, residents, landlords, and property agents.
Douglas highlighted that each case of poor property maintenance is unique, necessitating a proportionate approach that considers the specific circumstances of the property and its occupants. He expressed the need for detailed guidance on how the proposals would function, particularly concerning remedial work with tenants in place, the responsibilities of involved parties, and the management of properties under local authority control.
With the upcoming introduction of the Register Your Rental Property Service in December, councils will have enhanced access to information, enabling more targeted enforcement. Douglas stressed the importance of utilising existing tools effectively rather than introducing additional legislation that could strain relationships between responsible landlords and the government. He advocated for a fair, proportionate, and tailored approach to ensure sustainable, long-term outcomes.
Propertymark, representing over 18,000 members, continues to work closely with its members to uphold professional standards and provide guidance, advice, and training within the industry
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