Property News Update

Government Commits to Improving the Quality of New Homes

The UK Government has accepted a series of proposals from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) aimed at improving the quality of homes being built. Following a year-long investigation, the CMA raised concerns about the current standards of new housing and called for "significant intervention" in the housebuilding sector. The government has now committed to addressing these issues, including simplifying the planning system to help ease the housing shortage and empower homeowners to hold developers accountable for poor-quality homes.

Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook emphasized that the government would adopt the CMA's 11 recommendations and work towards ensuring the necessary improvements. This includes reinstating mandatory housing targets for councils and updating the National Planning Policy Framework to support the development of necessary infrastructure.

Nigel Cates, chief ombudsman for the New Homes Ombudsman Service, also welcomed the government’s commitment, noting that this would lead to more uniform protection for homebuyers across all developers. The introduction of a single mandatory consumer code for housebuilders will be a significant step toward improving the quality of new homes.

NRLA Partners with Domna to Help Landlords Improve EPC Ratings

The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has announced a new partnership with energy efficiency specialists Domna, aimed at helping landlords improve their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings. With upcoming regulations on energy efficiency standards, this partnership offers NRLA members access to discounted services, including remote "health check" assessments and full energy efficiency surveys, at significantly reduced rates.

Domna's CEO, Anna Moore, highlights the benefits of improving EPC ratings, which can not only increase property valuations by 20%+ but also boost rental income and reduce tenant energy consumption by up to 40%. As landlords face increasing pressure to meet higher energy standards, this partnership provides a practical solution for staying ahead of the curve.

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Homebuyers Urged to Be Vigilant for Invasive Bamboo

Property buyers are being warned about the risk of inheriting invasive bamboo infestations that can cause significant damage to homes and gardens. The plant, which spreads through long lateral rhizomes, can damage lawns, patios, and even properties if left unchecked. Unlike Japanese knotweed, there is no legal requirement for sellers to declare bamboo on a property, meaning homebuyers must conduct their own thorough checks.

Environet, a specialist in invasive plant removal, reports a sharp increase in enquiries for bamboo removal during property transactions. Homebuyers are advised to carefully inspect properties for any signs of bamboo and, if found, negotiate for the seller to remove it before the sale or agree on a price reduction to cover removal costs.

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Calls Grow to Allow Pets in Rental Properties

A recent report from the Welsh Parliament’s Local Government and Housing Committee has brought to light the challenges faced by tenants who wish to keep pets in rental properties. The committee is calling on the Welsh Government to take action, noting that many tenants are discriminated against because they have pets, often forcing them to choose between a home and their beloved animals.

The report suggests that landlords could benefit from allowing pets, as pet-owning tenants tend to stay in properties longer, providing stability for landlords. The Welsh Government is urged to launch a campaign to dispel myths about renting to pet owners and work toward extending tenants' rights to keep pets in suitable rental properties.

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