A recent report from the BRE (Building Research Establishment) estimates that the annual total cost to the NHS of treating patients suffering from the impact of their living conditions in properties within England is around £1.4 billion per year. A significant part of that bill is due to poor quality housing that leads to patients suffering from excess cold. This Category 1 hazard (under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System or, HHSRS) is 1st in the BRE’s top 3 list of Category 1 hazards. Interestingly, number 2 on their list was accidents in the home as a result of unsafe stairs with the 3rd issue being related to general flooring, all of which indicate poor property conditions as being the cause.

Of course, not all poor quality housing is to be found in the private rented sector (PRS) or, indeed in the social rented sector as the owner occupied sector also includes a too high proportion of below standard homes. However, in areas where the PRS is subject to selective licensing it can be possible to get better health outcomes for tenants. Selective Licensing schemes can reduce this burden if delivered effectively by having a robust and regular inspection and compliance management regime, underpinned by effective enforcement.

By delivering a regular inspection programme within the PRS the Local Authority is able to identify poor property conditions and poor property management which often lead to health inequality outcomes for the occupying tenants.

A huge problem in the PRS is that many properties still have EPC ratings of D or E which often indicates such homes are poorly insulated and poorly heated. It's also a well known issue that many rental properties have inadequate fire protection in place. All of this naturally leads to health related issues for the occupiers.

Health inequality can be tackled by Local Authorities through an effective licensing scheme which embeds regular property inspections. This must be underpinned by the effective management of landlord behaviour and, where necessary, enforcement. The outcome is better health for tenants and a reduction in health related costs.