Member Article

RICS launch new housing manifesto

RICS have launched a new residential policy in a bid to address the issues caused by the housing crisis.

In the report, RICS set out a clear plan of action to address areas including affordable mortgage finance, consumer protection and Britain’s ongoing housing shortage.

RICS believe that a functioning, professionalised and accessible housing market is vital, and the organisation is now looking to encourage Government to deliver legislation, policy and regulation which is of benefit to the sector and the UK economy.

Since the end of 2011, RICS has been in consultation with members and firms, who indicated that there is a role for professional standards and expertise to help consumers make informed choices when buying, selling or renting a property and RICS should be leading the way in delivering this.

RICS policy spokesperson, Kevan Carrick of JK Property Consultants LLP says: “We gained valuable feedback from members all across the North East to compile this landmark report.

“We will now take these recommendations to the government, with the aim of significantly influencing and improving the residential sector by reforming sections of the market and generating growth right across our region and the UK as a whole.”

However, RICS believes that both the immediate and long term issues in the market need to be addressed, and the government must deliver legislation, policy and regulation that provide us with the homes that we need, wherever we need them.

The report includes measures to get the property market moving, mandatory regulation of sales and letting agents, correct information for buyers and sellers, new ways of addressing the UK’s low housing stock and tackling the problems associated with social and affordable housing.

Mr Carrick added: “The changes we are recommending do need to happen if we are to see an economically viable sector, driven by professionals.

“Together with members, government and other industry bodies, consumer organisations and housing delivery groups, we can achieve this.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .