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Housing Solicitors

MPs’ inquiry to look at Right-to-buy extension for housing association tenants (7 August 2015)

Date: 07/08/2015
Duncan Lewis, Housing Solicitors, MPs’ inquiry to look at Right-to-buy extension for housing association tenants

An inquiry by MPs into housing associations (HA) is to focus on the government’s proposed extension of right-to-buy, as well as the viability and sustainability of housing associations.

Social housing publisher 24Dash.com reports that The Communities and Local Government (CLG) Committee will consider evidence on proposals on right-to-buy housing association properties – including the type and quality of housing stock covered by the extension, the geographical distribution of HA properties covered by the scheme and any effect on the availability of affordable homes.

There have been concerns raised that HAs will not be able to afford to replace homes bought under right-to-buy – and housing association stock will be diminished as a result, leading to a further shortage in affordable homes and homes in the public sector.

The inquiry will also examine the ability of HA tenants eligible for right-to-buy to be able to afford their own homes and keep up mortgage repayments, as well as the availability of financial education for prospective buyers – such as advice for prospective leaseholders on their responsibility to pay for major repairs to their home.

MPs will also consider the approach of mortgage lenders to the right-to-buy scheme.

Chair of the Communities and Local Government Committee, Clive Betts MP, said:

“Providing people with a roof over their heads – and ensuring more homes are built – are central to our nation’s future.

“Uncertainty around the extension of the right-to-buy scheme – and issues arising from the impact of welfare reforms and from changes announced in the Budget – raise real questions about the future sustainability of housing associations.

“Our inquiry will examine the effect on housing associations – and particularly their ability to house their tenants and invest in building new homes, of government policies, including the extension of right-to-buy and the reduction in rental income announced in the Budget.”

Duncan Lewis Housing Solicitors

Duncan Lewis housing solicitors can advise rental tenants in the private sector or public sector on a wide range of housing matters, including right-to-buy, disrepair and landlord’s duty to repair, as well as tenancy agreements – and landlord and tenant disputes

Duncan Lewis can also advise private sector landlords on their legal duty to tenants and other matters, including:

• Antisocial behaviour
• Landlord & tenant disputes
• Section 146 Notice (notice to quit)
• Tenancy agreements
• Unlawful eviction.

For expert legal advice on housing matters, call Duncan Lewis housing solicitors on 020 7923 4020.


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