Private landlords can help end homelessness in Wales – Propertymark

Propertymark has responded to a Welsh Government White Paper on Ending Homelessness which outlines its plans to reform the legislation on homelessness prevention.

The organisation has expressed its support for some of the key proposals, while also highlighting the need for better collaboration with the private rented sector (PRS).

Propertymark says: “We are pleased that the Welsh Government has recognised the important role that the PRS plays in providing housing for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

“We welcome the decision not to impose a legal duty on private landlords to refer tenants who are facing homelessness to local housing authorities, as this would have been counterproductive and damaging to the relationship between landlords and tenants.”

It goes on: “Where the threat of homelessness is due to a Section 173 notice, authorities must acknowledge that in most cases, landlords have a reasonable and legitimate reason for seeking possession – such as to sell the property or that they or their family can live in it.

“In these instances, housing teams should focus on supporting tenants to find alternative rented accommodation rather than disputing the possession.”

Support for people who are threatened with homelessness

Propertymark also says it supports the idea of extending the period of support for people who are threatened with homelessness from 56 days to six months to enable early interventions and better outcomes.

It also agrees with the removal of the intentionality and priority need tests which can exclude people from accessing the help they need.

The organisation points out: “However, we are concerned that there is not enough suitable housing available to meet the demand, especially for those with complex needs, disabilities or young children.

“Therefore, we urge the Welsh Government to ensure that there is an adequate supply of housing and support services before implementing these changes.”

Allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to become contract holders

One of the proposals that Propertymark has reservations about is the possibility of allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to become contract holders (tenants) under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which would increase the accommodation options for this group.

The Welsh Government has acknowledged that this could have unintended consequences, such as more young people entering the homelessness system, and has said that it will gather more evidence before making a decision.

Propertymark says: “We agree in principle that 16- and 17-year-olds who are homeless or at risk of homelessness should be able to access the PRS, but we are worried about the practical implications of this proposal.

“Property agents and landlords would need enough time and guidance to prepare for this change, and to ensure that they comply with their legal obligations and safeguarding duties.

“We also think that there should be more support and protection for both the young people and the landlords involved, such as mediation, mentoring and guarantor schemes.”

Communication between the PRS and local housing authorities

Along with improving communication between the PRS and local housing authorities, Propertymark says: “We believe that the PHPs are a good way of ensuring that people receive tailored and coordinated support, but they will only work if there is effective collaboration and information sharing between all the relevant parties, including the PRS.

“The PRS is a vital housing provider, especially given the serious shortage of social housing, and local housing authorities should recognise this and develop positive relationships with agents and landlords.

“They should also consider creating databases of PRS properties that are suitable for different needs, such as accessibility, affordability and location, and offer incentives and assistance to landlords who are willing to house vulnerable tenants, such as bond schemes, training and advice.”

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