I spent time over the weekend listening to the housing concerns of people living in the Brunswick area. It’s actually overwhelming to stand in the street with a sign saying “Letting Agents” as almost everyone that passes has a story to share. And believe me, some of them are true horror stories.
We need to fix this right now because things will only get worse without action. Did you know that by 2021 there will be 17,380 homes that are in the private rental sector in Hove, that’s a stunning 37% of our housing stock. Labour have made pledges nationally and locally to tackle this problem, including:
– Banning letting agent fees, something that will save tenants in Hove £624 over a five year period
– Giving the right to a long-term contract. This will give stability and encourage people to feel much more connected to their local community
-Establishing a local register of landlords that will enable the council to take action against those who fail to live up to the high standards we as a city expect
Of course there are many brilliant landlords and some great letting agents. I don’t want to get in the way of their good work but rather bring others up to their standards.
I get contacted by so many people wanting to talk about housing issues. I’m pleased to be pledging policies that will tackle them. And as you can see from the photos, I’m even prepared to brave the bitter cold weather to listen to residents on the subject too (in case you can’t see I’m the one hidden under three layers of wool)! All the best, Peter
