Buy to let ‘just an extension of social housing’ claims council

A council is launching a Private Tenants Charter which it says will set standards for landlords and private rental sector organisations to help all residents know what they can expect from their landlord.

Oldham council’s charter has eight core values including commitments to making sure homes are safe and of a quality living standard, being transparent and approachable and - in the words of the local authority - acknowledging that the private rental sector is an extension of the social housing sector.

The charter says private landlords “therefore should offer the same security, standards and experience as living in social housing.”

Councillor Hannah Roberts, the housing spokesperson on the council, says: “The vast majority of our private landlords rent out decent properties and look after their tenants.  Unfortunately, there is still a small number who fail to provide decent housing.”

The council also has a new Selective licensing scheme which it has launched in parallel with the charter. 

Robert says: “[The charter] has been signed by a number of organisations and agencies who are committed supporting private tenants and landlords to ensure they have a positive renting experience in Oldham. 

“We are living in difficult times, and we want tenants, especially those renting privately, to know exactly what their rights are so we can help to protect them. 

“We would call on more landlords and advice and support agencies to sign up and show they put tenants first and people before profits.” 

The council claims that a public consultation on the new Selective scheme showed that 74 per cent of resident and business respondents thought the council should have more control over the way landlords manage their properties, and 58 per cent of residents and businesses thought that selective licensing would improve their area.

The council has not given information on the level of response to the consultation.

Roberts concludes: ”Oldham council is committed to making sure residents across Oldham live in safe homes that are managed properly. 

“The Selective Licensing Scheme and Private Tenants Charter will give us and our residents more power to ensure landlords are acting responsibly. Those who fail to do so will face action from the council.” 

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