Renters don’t want Reform, have the Government taken their eye of the ball?

The housing crisis is at the forefront of the nation's concerns.

Recent survey results from Spareroom have sent a clear message:.

With a staggering 85% of those surveyed prioritising it above other pressing issues such as the cost of living and healthcare, it's evident that action is long overdue.

The statistics paint a stark picture: over 4.6m of UK households in private renting, amplifying the urgency for solutions.

As the country braces for an upcoming general election within the next year, the spotlight on housing policy intensifies.

What do renters want to see from the government?

The survey highlights key demands, notably the introduction of rent caps, utilising empty properties, and prioritising residential supply over second homes.

This concern for rising rents was echoed by listeners of the Martin Lewis podcast, who were asked to send in their questions for a special renters edition with Property Expert Julie Ford.

The overriding questions all focused on rent increases whether the landlord had a limit they can increase the rent by or how to challenge an unaffordable increase.

Rent rises are top of the concerns for rents and voters alike 

These worries underscore the need for immediate action to alleviate the strain on renters nationwide.

However, amidst these pressing concerns, there's a disconnect with the focus of certain tenant lobby groups.

While some advocate for the removal of section 21 and unsecured periodic tenancies, the survey suggests a misalignment with renters' priorities. Could the government be swayed by minority voices, overlooking the broader consensus revealed in the survey?

The urgency is compounded by the sluggish progress of the Renters Reform Bill. Hindered by over 200 amendments during its third reading, the bill's journey through Parliament has been painstakingly slow.

This delay, coupled with the staggering turnover of housing ministers since 2010, reflects a lack of continuity and focus in addressing the crisis.

With an average tenure of just 11 months, housing ministers have struggled to leave a lasting impact.

The survey's revelation that only 16% of respondents could name the current Housing Minister speaks volumes about the instability within the department.

Amidst this turmoil, Jacob Young MP emerges as a beacon of advocacy for the Renters Reform Bill, while Housing Minister Lee Rowley MP remains relatively obscure.

This disparity raises questions about leadership and commitment within the government's housing agenda.

As the nation grapples with the housing crisis, there's an urgent call for decisive action.

Renters' concerns cannot afford to be sidelined any longer.

It is time for the government to listen, prioritise, and deliver meaningful solutions to ensure affordable and sustainable housing for all.