Housing minister Eddie Hughes is to spell out how landlords can improve their properties ahead of legislation expected when the Renters Reform Bill is finally introduced to Parliament later this year.

In a roundtable discussion organised by Onward – which describes itself as a think tank with “bold and practical ideas for the centre right” – Hughes will be the main speaker.

Onward’s preview for the event – which lasts 75 minutes and is being held in the afternoon of July 6 – says: “Between 2007 and 2017 the number of households in the private rented sector increased from 2.8 Million to 4.5 million. With house prices increasing across the UK, demand for rental properties continues to rise, especially for groups such as young professionals or families in low income occupations.

“Poor housing conditions remain one of the key barriers to opportunity in the UK. In the Queen’s Speech last year, the Government committed to driving forward reforms in the PRS to improve tenants’ rights and protect the most vulnerable. 

“As the Government embarks on a mission to ‘regenerate’ the UK, including changes to the Decent Homes Standard, this event will consider what more private landlords and institutional investors can do to ensure homes are healthy and liveable.

“This roundtable will bring together senior policymakers and other stakeholders to explore how best to ensure higher standards in the private rental sector and the role of institutional landlords in supporting that process.”

You can see more details here.