A parliamentary bid to improve conditions in rented accommodation has today won the support of the Law Society of England and Wales.
Throwing his weight behind a private members bill by Karen Buck MP, Law Society president Joe Egan said it was a long overdue advancement for tenants’ rights.
“It is remarkable in the UK in 2018 that tenants do not have an automatic legal right to live in a home fit for human habitation,” he said.
“Almost 3 million people are living in rental homes with category 1 hazards in England alone. These are hazards that have a serious and immediate risk to health and safety.
“Some of the law in this area has not been updated in more than 30 years and is no longer fit for purpose.
“It is vital parliament vote to ensure everyone has the right to live in a safe home.”
Joe Egan said finding the right balance between landlord and tenant rights was difficult but necessary.
“The majority of landlords act responsibly and maintain their properties appropriately,” he said.
“Giving renters greater rights to address concerns directly will improve access to justice in this important area.
“This Bill will readdress the balance and ensure the rights of both landlords and tenants will be respected.”
The government has signalled its intention to support the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation and Liability for Housing Standards) Bill in its Second Reading on Friday.
