Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation and Liability for Housing Standards) Bill

Thank you for contacting me about the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation and Liability for Housing Standards) Bill.

I welcomed the Government’s recent announcement that, not only was the Government supporting this legislation, but that the Housing department had also been working with Karen Buck MP to help draft the Bill ahead of its recent publication.

I will believe this bill will enable meaningful action to be taken on poor and unsafe living conditions for renters and will be pleased to support it.

If enacted, the Bill will build upon a raft of policies introduced by the Government aimed at driving up standards in the private and social rented sectors. These include empowering local authorities to fine failing landlords up to £30,000. From April, local councils will also be able to issue to banning orders to kick the worst offenders out of the business altogether.

Moreover, I am confident that this Bill will complement the Government's radical overhaul of building regulations and fire safety, following the Grenfell fire. An independent review into this area, led by Dame Judith Hackitt, is expected to report in the spring.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.