Members may remember meetings earlier this year when we discussed the PCC draft strategy for the private rented sector (published in January, see it here). It contained 9 proposed strategic objectives, 14 actions which could be taken without external involvement and 9 more that would need the help of others including us.
A consultation has now started to try to assess the relative importance of each of the 9 proposed strategic objectives and also, to gain the views of the general public on the need for and the likely effectiveness of some of the proposed actions.
Patrick Lee, who will be at our October meeting to answer questions, said "Consultation on the draft strategy was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic, but we're now at a stage where we are looking to consult with anyone interested in the issues surrounding the private rental sector in Portsmouth. This information will be used to inform and develop the final strategy and subsequent action plans."
Patrick went on to say, "The Private Rental Strategy consultation aims to give everyone an opportunity to have their say to help create housing solutions in the short and long term that will benefit the whole city.
Here's a link to the consultation: https://www.research.net/r/PRSConsultation2020"
In our view, it is unfortunate that the form PCC have used for consultations about strategies of late has been structured to try and judge aspirational priorities – so if you simply click through saying 'Yes, this is important' or 'Yes, this is very important' you will end up having said it is all important and wonderful without telling PCC anything useful. What we need members to do is to spend a few minutes adding some explanation of what will and what will not work and if there is a cost to us, what is it – too often new policies are introduced, such as more communal space requirements without, in that example, an understanding of how many rooms are removed from the market or the impact that had on rent levels
There are some good ideas in the strategy but we need to ensure PCC have as much comment from landlords as they get from tenants and other stakeholders and only that way, may we see change for the better.
So, whether you complete the questionnaire, attend the October member meeting or both, here are some questions which may help you form your thoughts:
We will obviously submit a view on behalf of the PDPLA, but we need you to talk to us in person at a forthcoming meeting, online at the meeting with Patrick or via email or phone – whatever works for you.Some of our current thoughts requiring your input:
Do you agree with any of the above? We see the problems when members bring them to us - are we missing all the 'this was great' experiences' or do we have the right perspective? Do let us know.
Martin began his landlord journey 15 years ago, while working in an international role for a global telecommunications company. Since retiring he has extended his portfolio, which he manages with his wife, but has always focussed on the ‘small student HMO’ sector preferring to offer homes in the community for small groups to the more common ‘pack them in and take the money’ mentality. He has chaired the PDPLA for the past 6 years and has overseen the Associations transition from small local self-help group to a much larger and more professional institution which is recognised and listened to nationally. Alongside his PDPLA role, he also has leadership roles in a number of other local organisations – bringing his unique perspective, driving for change and increased use of technology while respecting the history that brought us here.
Written & oral information and advice from the Portsmouth & District Private Landlord's Association is given in good faith, but no responsibility whatsoever is accepted by the Association or it's officers for the accuracy of it's information & advice nor shall the Association be held responsible for the consequences of reliance upon such information.
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