November 2016 – Housing Proposals

The new proposals would set a minimum room size of 6.52sq-m. The rules will also ensure mandatory licensing rules apply to all shared homes with five or more people from two or more households, and to flats above and below shops and other business premises. The rules will require landlords of shared homes to provide decent storage and disposal of rubbish and tighten up the fit and proper person test for landlords and ensuring criminal record checks are carried out to weed out rogues. The proposals are currently out for consultation until 13 December 2016.

 

Meanwhile a Bill to raise housing standards in relation to the preparation, storage and cooking of food, has received its first reading in the House of Commons.

The Bill proposes a requirement on private sector and housing association landlords to ensure that their rented accommodation meets minimum standards for the hygienic storage and preparation of food, and contains adequate appliances, equipment and utensils for the cooking of food. The provisions would apply to landlords of tenants who are claiming universal credit or housing benefit.

The Bill is due for its second reading on 4 November 2016.

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