25 January 2008
An independent review of private rented housing is to look into the rapid growth of buy-to-let accommodation and its wider impact on neighbourhoods.
The review, first announced last month by housing minister Yvette Cooper, will be led by two academics from York University.
The private rented sector has grown by 21% over the past five years but one in five tenants is dissatisfied with repairs carried out by private landlords, according to Citizens Advice. Some are also afraid of retaliation if they complain to local authorities.
The rapid turnover of tenants following the growth of buy-to-let accommodation has been identified as a cause of antisocial behaviour.
Launching the review this week, Cooper said the private rented sector was, at its best, a vital provider of good housing. 'But too few people are aware of their rights and responsibilities, either as tenants or landlords,' she added.
The review will be headed by David Rhodes and Julie Rugg from York University's centre for housing policy and will last nine months.
PFjan2008
