Private Renters Charter must be implemented immediately
Cllr Tim Douglas (Paddox) calls on Rugby Borough Council to implement the Private Renters Charter to ensure renters and landlords get the support they need following the impact of coronavirus.
In February 2019, Rugby Borough Council voted to introduce a Private Sector Housing Charter for Rugby Borough but so far little or no work has been done in promoting, publicising, or getting the Charter up and running.
The coronavirus pandemic has exposed the precariousness of the private rented sector and even before the pandemic renters were already worse off than homeowners, spending a higher proportion of their earnings on housing.
The Charter provides a quick and easy way for all private renters to find out what their rights are, what standards they should expect, and where to go for help. It is also a way for the Council to engage with landlords and letting agents.
Commenting, Councillor Tim Douglas, said:
"Changes to the private rented sector have been made at a national level but Rugby Borough Council must ensure that renters across Rugby are supported and have all the information they need. It is not just about rent costs, but repairs, maintenance and working with landlords and agents. Councillors voted to introduce the Charter and the Council need to get on and implement it immediately."
Notes to Editors
Lib Dem calls lead to Private Sector Housing Charter