§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will provide incentives to private sector landlords to improve the conditions of their properties.
§ Mr. YeoThe main incentive a private landlord has to improve his property is that it will command a higher rent. If the additional rental income which can be expected is insufficient to pay for the works a house renovation grant may be available. A landlord will be entitled to such a grant if a repairs notice is served by the local housing authority.
§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will introduce legislation to improve the minimum conditions standards for privately rented accommodation.
§ Mr. YeoThe minimum standard of fitness of dwellings for human habitation in section 604 of the Housing Act 1985 was replaced by an improved standard set out in paragraph 83 of schedule 9 to the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. This applies to all properties, including those in the private rented sector, and includes provisions relating specifically to buildings containing flats. There are no plans for further legislative changes at present, although the matter is being kept under review.