“We are not convinced by the case for regulating managing agents”

Housing minister Grant Shapps recently gave a written answer to Parliament, confirming the Government’s preference for self-regulation of residential managing agents.  Shapps was quizzed by MP’s John Pugh, Laura Sandys, and Justin Tomlinson.  

In providing his answers, Mr. Shapps said, “It is important that landlords and managing agents as well as other businesses operate in a socially responsible manner....We have considered the issue of regulation in the leasehold management sector and believe that the current legislative framework can deliver that balance, if matched by an increasingly pro-active and positive approach by the professionals in the sector.”

With regard to regulating leasehold management in the retirement sector, the position is less certain as Mr. Shapps explained: “I am, however, aware of some specific concerns, particularly in the retirement sector where there is an ongoing OFT investigation. We will, however, keep a close watching brief and will not rule out making changes in future if that proves necessary.”
The Housing Minister also confirmed that the Government has “...no plans to abolish the leasehold system...”, or “...to alter the commonhold legislation...”.

Separately, Mr. Shapps has backed an £8m Right to Manage scheme, for council house tenants in England. The money is earmarked for the establishment of Tenants Panels through which decisions can be made, such as that of local improvements, the speed of repairs and children's play scheme the development. The panels will also provide a forum in which landlords can be held to account. Mr Shapps said, "The Right to Manage gives council tenants the opportunity to take power back from their landlords, and take control over their own homes and to make the changes they want to see.”