The research examines the development and implementation of new private sector housing strategies by local authorities in England and Wales. Provides a review of the government’s agenda for private sector housing renewal, outlining key elements of legislation and the new targets, powers, and expectations. Examines the way in which local authorities have responded to this agenda, by establishing private sector policies and targeting particular groups. Discusses efforts to improve energy efficiency in the private rented sector. The research explores the constraints facing local authorities in seeking to implement their programmes under the Regulatory Reform (Housing Assistance) (England and Wales) Order.

Legislation such as the Housing Act 2004 and the Regulatory Reform (Housing Assistance) (England and Wales) Order has changed the way the government seeks to encourage private sector home improvement. Local authorities are required by the Regulatory Reform Order to produce strategies for private sector housing renewal. This research evaluates the progress made by local authorities in implementing the powers of the Regulatory Reform Order.

Two questionnaire surveys of all local housing authorities in England and Wales were carried out: one in February 2003 before the powers of the RRO came into force; and the other in April 2004. A sample of local authority private sector housing renewal strategies was reviewed. Visits were undertaken to local authorities regarded as demonstrating good practice in an aspect of private sector housing renewal. These visits were supplemented by telephone interviews with local authority staff.

The research highlighted a gap between the expectations of the policy reforms of central government and the capacity of local authorities to deliver.

The initial response of local housing authorities to the RRO was general favourable. Initial policy changes were characterised by the introduction of new types of grant aid to address housing problems, especially energy efficiency.

The research suggested that local housing authorities found it very difficult to engage with private finance organisations and as a consequence of this and inadequate levels of staff, they were unlikely to meet their obligations under the RRO and the Housing Act.

Joseph Rowntree Foundation
Phone: +44 1904 629241
research.info@jrf.org.uk

15/12/2005

//

Groves, Rick; Sankey, Sian

research

Urban Policy > Housing > Housing quality

Housing improvement