News

The recent case in Sittingbourne, Kent, where two landlords faced a hefty fine of over £25,000, raises critical concerns regarding tenant safety and adherence to housing regulations. The Swale Borough Council's housing enforcement team's investigation unveiled serious violations in the operation of a house in multiple occupation (HMO), leading to a pivotal court decision aimed at safeguarding residents....

In a pioneering move towards combating domestic abuse, the government of Jersey, led by Housing Minister Sam Mezec, has unveiled an innovative initiative aimed at enhancing housing support for survivors transitioning from temporary refuge accommodations to independent living. A recent report has underscored the critical need to prioritize housing applications for these vulnerable individuals, reflecting...

Aamer Shah's ambitious proposal to transform a two-bedroom semi-detached house on Barton Road, Stretford, into a ten-bedroom house of multiple occupation (HMO) has stirred discussions within the community and planning authorities. The application, which includes plans for a three-storey extension, seeks to address existing housing shortages in the area while raising concerns about potential anti-social...

Westminster City Council is inviting feedback on a proposed selective property licensing scheme targeting the private rented sector, with the aim of enhancing rental safety and quality across the borough by2026. The scheme is part of the council’s broader strategy to tackle the challenges posed by the housing crisis, especially in a locality with the largest private rented sector in England. All...

In a significant move that has caught the attention of both local and national stakeholders, Shelter Scotland has demanded the resignation of the leadership of the City of Edinburgh Council over its contentious approach to homelessness policies. The charity's condemnation follows a council decision to potentially decrease housing rights for vulnerable populations, just as Edinburgh grapples with the...

The UK rental market is undergoing a significant transformation as recent reports indicate that tenant demand has declined for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift in demand is set against a backdrop of fluctuating economic conditions, including rising interest rates and the increasing cost of living, which have begun to impact renters' abilities and willingness to secure new...

In a significant move aimed at addressing housing shortages across high-demand areas, new legislation will allow England’s local authorities to potentially double council tax on second homes starting from April2025. This comes in response to a 65% surge in the number of second homes in the UK from 2010 to 2023, culminating in a total of 482,000 properties. This drastic measure seeks to relieve some of...

In a contentious turn of events, Broadstairs councillors are set to deliberate a proposal to transform the Kent House nursing home into a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) with 21 beds. Currently, the nursing home serves as a vital support facility for older individuals and those suffering from dementia, accommodating up to 25 residents. The application seeks to maintain the structure of the building with...

In a significant ruling that underscores the ongoing challenges of tenant safety in London, dodgy landlord Alvaro Odeh-Torro and his company, London Living Group, have been fined approximately £50,000 for serious violations of housing regulations. The fine comes as a result of overcrowding issues in two managed properties, where multiple tenants were found living in unsatisfactory conditions that...

In November 2024, a troubling report by Skipton Group has unveiled the harsh reality facing first-time home buyers (FTBs) across the UK. The findings highlight that a mere12.5% of these hopeful purchasers can afford the average price of their first home, manifesting a severe housing affordability crisis. This crisis is especially pronounced for those in the lower income brackets, where less than 1% have...