Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook (main picture) has defended the Government’s plans to improve the private rented sector (PRS) during the next 10 years.

He told MPs the timescale for the Decent Homes Standard had to be realistic, and give landlords enough time to make improvements.

The Government has begun a consultation on Awaab’s Law and the Decent Homes standard, which will be implemented in 2035 or 2037.

To be waiting 10 years seems extreme.”

Sarah Smith MP said: “To be waiting 10 years seems extreme given the money being made in this sector, and the responsibility every single landlord should have to provide a home with running water, and free from damp and mould and rat infestations.

“Surely there could be greater urgency than 2035,” she insisted.

Pennycook said: “We have acted urgently by laying regulations on Awaab’s Law, which will require landlords to address hazards including damp and mould.”

Sticking tape

But Housing, Communities and Local Government committee chair Florence Eshalomi said local authorities were not resourced well enough to carry out inspections.

“The situation is getting dire on a daily basis,” she said. And she warned that the current Government plans only amount to “sticking tape” on the problems.

Pennycook also told the committee he was confident the Government would hit its target of 1.5 million new homes built within five years, but needed to “ramp up supply”.

Government begins consultation on new Decent Homes Standard