It called on local authorities to set up community housing agencies, which would match tenants with landlords. These would be in direct competition with letting agents and profits generated by the council-run agencies would be using to increase housing inspections and operate a system of landlord accreditation.
IPPR North director Ed Cox said: ‘Our research shows that people on the lowest incomes are not only the most likely to live in sub-standard housing but they are also the least likely to have these problems addressed by their landlord. They are also less likely to take action against their landlord for fear of the consequences.
‘Local authorities are best placed to identify and determine the properties that most need attention. With powers largely in their possession, local authorities should establish not-for-profit agencies to act as a guardian and gatekeeper for tenants living in the private rented sector.’
According to the report, Back to Rising Damp? Addressing housing quality in the private rented sector, almost one million vulnerable households are living in inadequate accommodation. It claimed that privately rented properties are both the most expensive and in the worst condition.
