Key issues under investigation
The inquiry will examine the use of temporary housing, including bed and breakfast accommodation and other arrangements often deemed unsuitable for long-term family living. Additionally, it aims to evaluate how local authorities, the UK Government, and housing providers can better support families in temporary accommodation.
Chair of the Committee, Florence Eshalomi, MP, emphasised the critical nature of the issue, highlighting that the current housing crisis has left families in conditions that are far from ideal for raising children. These sub-standard accommodations often lack the stability and safety necessary for healthy childhood development.
Eshalomi also noted that the financial burden of providing temporary housing is straining local authority budgets, compounding the challenges.
Propertymark has long suggested that unfair and unbalanced legislation will lead to a mass exodus of landlords from the private rented sector at a time when it is already under immense strain. Availability of temporary accommodation would be affected by such an exodus. Research undertaken by London Councils states that over the past two years, there has been a 662% increase in families placed by London boroughs in B&B due to a shortage of suitable accommodation.
English Private Landlord Survey sheds light on PRS challenges
The English Private Landlord Survey 2024, published by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), provides a detailed picture of the private rented sector (PRS) in England, capturing the state of play for landlords and tenants alike. This vital report sheds light on the evolving dynamics of a sector that houses nearly one in five households across England with new costs squeezing landlords and increases in diversity noted across age, gender and ethnicity since 2021.
Next steps in the inquiry
The committee's first evidence session took place on 5 November 2024. Representatives from homelessness advocacy groups and local government stakeholders will share insights and experiences. The inquiry is set to conclude with questions being put to the minister early next year.
A crisis in numbers
Temporary accommodation use in England has reached alarming levels. According to the Local Government Association, over 117,000 households are in such arrangements as of 2024. This marks a 12% increase from the previous year, setting a record since data collection began in 1998.
Implication of short-term lets
Propertymark has voiced concerns about factors contributing to housing instability, including the impact of short-term lettings on rental supply. We have warned the UK Government that the rise in short-term rentals could further limit housing availability in the private rented sector, exacerbating the affordability crisis and increasing competition for housing.
The impact of short-term/holiday lets on UK housing
This research piece presents an updated picture of the current market for short-term lets (STLs), looks at the broader costs/benefits to our communities, and potential solutions that could maximise the benefits while minimising the drawbacks as seen by property agents.
