NEWS & EVENTS

The proposal put forward by leader David Cameron has the aim of using the almost 1 million empty homes across the country to alleviate the problems of the 1.8 million families who are struggling to find suitable accommodation. The plans propose that the social housing sector could take on some of the properties and rent them to families for an affordable rent.

But whilst the plans have received a general welcome, Property Director at Roythorne Christmas solicitors Robbie ODriscoll said other parts of the proposal caused more concern.

"At present, homes for social housing have to meet strict environmental standards - often higher than those for private housing. The Tories propose to temporarily suspend these standards in order that the properties can be taken on quickly by Social landlords. Our concern is that lowering the standards will result in a dilution of the quality of stock. When the temporary suspension ended, landlords could be faced with a dilemma