Rented properties ‘should face MOT-style tests’
Rented homes should pass MOT-style tests to make sure they are fit to live in experts have said.
A review of the private rental sector in England by academics at the University of York has argued that regulation of the market is too confusing.
Their report suggests that a “property MOT” could simplify existing regulations and help drive up standards in rented homes where tenants often live in poor conditions. It would operate in a similar way to MOTs for cars, with flats and houses facing an annual inspection. This would include current requirements such as electrical and gas safety certificates but add a new assessment setting a basic minimum standard that all properties must meet.
The MOT test would be carried out by independent inspectors and landlords could claim it as a tax-deductible business cost. The Evolving Private Sector report was funded by the Nationwide Foundation.
Julie Rugg, co-author of the report and senior research fellow at the University of York’s centre for housing policy, said that there had been a surge in those renting privately.
“We need to see a fundamental re-think of the role that private renting plays in our housing market and a comprehensive strategy to ensure it meets the need of every renter ,”she said.
“A property MOT would give people confidence before they sign a tenancy that the property is fit for purpose, and that standards won’t lapse in the future, while for landlords, it offers greater clarity and protection against prosecution. This proposal is just one way in which existing legislation can be simplified to make the sector work better for everyone.”
Leigh Pearce, chief executive of the Nationwide Foundation, said:”The private rented sector too often fails to provide decent and affordable homes,particularly for those on low incomes.”
David Smith policy director for the Residential Landlords Association, said:”We welcome the report which the RLA contributed to, No one should have to face living in sub-standard accommodation.”
