While Rosie enjoys her maternity leave, I’m sitting in the Co-ordinator’s seat.
Of course, Rosie is a very hard act to follow but now, I’m finally ready to say it: HELLO RENTERS
Generation Rent: London’s Turning
On 26 September, Generation Rent released their latest report, which includes proposals to improve the lot of London renters. The report calls for City Hall to build upon the work localauthorities have started, with establishment of a not-for-profit, London-wide lettings agency. This agency should
- Offer longer tenancies as standard
- Not discriminate against tenants reliant upon housing benefit
- Manage properties seized from negligent landlords, as well as new-build homes for rent
- Accredit other lettings agents which subscribe to its high standards
On 18 September, Sadiq Khan launched details of his London Living Rent scheme, an
initiative called for in this document. However, as PM Theresa May was so quick to appoint a Minister for Housing, Planning and London, calls for Sadiq Khan to seek new Mayoral powers from government seem unlikely to give rise to anything but disappointment.
Perhaps Generation Rent would do well to re-focus their efforts, then, because their proposals are such good ones, informed by the real needs of Londoners.
Read the full report >> London’s Turning: Towards a sustainable private rented
sector under the new Mayor.
Private Renters in North Islington
A renters’ group has formed, almost by accident, in Charteris Neighbourhood, Finsbury Park N4. Six private tenants, aged 26 to 32, contributed to the first Renters’ Rights zine and, as they all live close by, they form the basis of the new group.
Despite paying high rents, all are happy with their current accommodation. However, the risk of a S.21 Notice hangs like a cloud over every one’s head (one member previously had to move eight times in nine years). Their most pressing need is for longer tenancies without further rent increases.
One of their neighbours has had to take a second job to afford her rent so she’s either still at work or too exhausted to meet the others. Having worked all her adult life, at 64 years of age, this woman now wants and needs some reduction in her rent, which exactly reflects the current ‘market value’of her home.
The renter was delighted when her landlord offered to pay her winter fuel bills. It’s an idea which all landlords making a handsome profit should consider, as a matter of duty for those renting to people over 60 or to families with children under 14 years of age.
If you live in North Islington and are interested in joining Charteris Neighbourhood Private Renters Group, please contact me portia@cfpt.org.uk and I’ll put you in touch.
Your Invitation to Attend ‘Axe The Housing Act Summit’
The regulations intended to inform operation of the Act are due to come into effect in April 2017. Few details have been released, though, and this secondary legislation still has to pass through Parliament.
Private renters fear that Housing & Planning Act 2016 will lead to even higher rents in London.
Now, you are invited to this one day conference of discussion, workshops and action planning.
Axe The Housing Act Summit on 22 October from 1100h
Hamilton House, Mabledon Place WC1H 9BD