Landlords count cost of safety reform

LANDLORDS have warned the cost of building safety reforms could be far higher than the estimated £132m, with tenants likely to foot much of the bill through higher rents.

- CHRIS HAINES

The Welsh Government's estimate of £62 for each house in multiple occupation (HMO) for total yearly costs of the building safety bill is a severe underestimate, according to landlords.

The National Residential Landlords' Association (NRLA) said a full fire risk assessment alone typically costs £394.50, plus a £100-a-year review. Required upgrades can cost up to £15,000 for a single property.

Writing to the Senedd's housing committee, the NRLA said: "These costs will generally be passed on to tenants through rent - although significant costs can lead to unprofitability... causing selloffs and reducing the total stock available."

Landlords also warned: "The proposals outlined in the building safety bill provide a weak method of enforcement against tenants who regularly fail to comply with their duties.

"As a result, it is likely to be slow, cumbersome and provide no meaningful way for landlords to compel a tenant to stop breaching their own fire safety duties."