While attention is focused on the Renters’ Rights Bill, Parliament is also turning its focus to housing quality this week.

The Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) Committee begins evidence sessions on Tuesday for its new inquiry into housing conditions across England. The cross-party committee will examine issues such as damp, mould, and other hazards, and evaluate how effective current and proposed policies are in improving housing standards.

Key Participants

The inquiry opens with evidence from:

• Sir Michael Marmot, Director, Institute for Health Equity

• Helen Garratt, National Housing Data and Insights Lead, Building Research Establishment

• Dr Henry Dawson, Senior Lecturer in Housing and Public Health, Cardiff Metropolitan University

Focus Areas

The inquiry will assess:

• The prevalence and severity of poor housing conditions across all tenures, including social and private rented sectors.

• The impact of substandard housing on health and quality of life.

• Government initiatives, including the Decent Homes Standard, Awaab’s Law, and the Renters’ Reform Bill.

• Conditions in social housing, private rentals, new builds, and temporary accommodation.

The committee’s findings could influence future housing legislation and policy, particularly in relation to safety, habitability, and tenant protection.