Welsh housing survey set for next year as NRLA calls for regular landlord surveys

The Welsh government have announced a Welsh housing survey will take place next year.

Propertymark and the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) have campaigned for a housing survey similar to the English Housing Survey to provide accurate data.

The NRLA have welcomed the survey but says the Welsh government should introduce regular landlord surveys.

Provide a wider breadth of evidence

Jayne Bryant MS, cabinet secretary for housing and local government, says the survey will consist of two parts.

She explains: “A detailed social survey to gather household information required for fuel poverty analysis (such as income), as well as housing experiences and views; and a physical home inspection carried out by a qualified surveyor to gather information on the fabric and condition of the home.”

She adds the two parts will work together to strengthen the evidence base.

She said: “I believe this approach will provide a wider breadth of evidence to more effectively inform policy development and implementation than a housing conditions survey alone.

“As well as providing detailed information on fuel poverty, energy performance of homes and housing quality across all tenures, it will also enable the gathering of evidence to better support affordable housing, second homes and homelessness policies.”

This is something we have long called for

Timothy Douglas, head of policy and campaigns at Propertymark, said: “It is positive news that the Welsh government has listened to Propertymark and others and will commission a Welsh Housing Survey as accurate data, statistics, and evidence are vital for good policymaking. This is something we have long called for.

“Housing plays a vital role in people’s lives and property standards and the role of agents and the actions of landlords and tenants, as well as home buyers and sellers, needs to be better captured in order to ensure policymakers have an accurate view of the industry and ultimately make the right decisions for Wales.”

Good policy starts with good evidence

The NRLA says the Welsh Housing Survey will be a positive step, but needs to be part of a long-term strategy.

Ben Beadle, NRLA chief executive, said: “We are pleased to see the Welsh government has listened to NRLA calls and committed to a comprehensive, national housing survey.

“Good policy starts with good evidence, and this survey has the potential to provide vital insights into housing needs and standards across Wales.”

Mr Beadle adds: “However, to be truly effective, this must mark the beginning of a consistent, long-term programme of data collection that ensures policymakers can make better-informed decisions that benefit landlords, tenants, and communities alike.”

The NRLA are urging the Welsh government to conduct regular landlord surveys in Wales.

The NRLA says regular landlord surveys will help the Welsh government to understand key factors driving supply in the private rented sector and track property conditions and landlord intentions.