UK housing policy has been questioned regarding its priorities, with concerns raised about the treatment of small landlords compared to corporate housing providers.
Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, former RBKC housing director Laura Johnson secured a £157,000-a-year permanent role with council-owned housing company The Barnet Group. While public backlash led to her departure, the commentary asks why senior officials overseeing systemic safety failures are allowed to move into lucrative roles.
Thousands of residents are reportedly still living in high-rises with combustible cladding. The commentary also highlights that small landlords face significant financial pressures, including Capital Gains Tax, mortgage interest restrictions, and a 40% Inheritance Tax, which can leave them with under 45% of their asset value when selling properties.
It is suggested that these pressures are forcing small landlords out of the market, potentially leading to a reduction in available housing stock and worsening the homelessness crisis.