More lessons to learn in student housing

The London Assembly today asked the Mayor to better protect the housing rights of London students.

The Assembly called for particular attention to be paid to the needs of students in future housing policies, to protect them against bad landlords during their learning years in the capital.

Andrew Dismore AM, who proposed the motion said:

“Students make a big contribution towards London’s communities and economy – but we’re badly failing them with unacceptable and unaffordable accommodation. It’s abundantly clear that the excessive cost of housing and poor property standards in London’s private rented sector is having a hugely detrimental impact on the student experience in London.

“Tackling London’s housing crisis should be the number one priority of the next Mayor, and a particular focus should be on improving housing conditions for students as a means of maintaining London’s position as a global leader in academia. Meanwhile the Mayor has to step up his work with universities, colleges and student unions to ensure that students are far more aware of their rights and are equipped to take on rogue landlords. The sooner we take action the better.”

The full text of the Motion is:

“This Assembly recognises that students studying in London are especially vulnerable when renting privately.

For many, this will be the first time they are away from home and the first time they have entered the private rental market, and at time when they are unlikely to be aware of their rights.

Students are also likely to experience excessive rents and unfair estate agent charges.

The Assembly therefore calls on the Mayor to pay particular attention to the needs of students in his housing policies, with particular reference to ensuring that they are protected from bad landlords, including a campaign working with universities and college authorities and student unions, to ensure students are aware of their rights as tenants and how to enforce them.”