An inquiry is being launched by the All Party Parliamentary Group for the Private Rented Sector (PRS) into how to improve standards and how to regulate the private rented sector.

The inquiry was originally opened following the release of figures from the English Housing Survey for 2011-2012 which was shown to report that at least 21% of properties in the PRS have at least one safety hazard.

Martin Vickers, MP for Cleethorpes and chairman of the Group, said: “All the official figures show that the private rented sector is now the only housing tenure growing. Whilst good news for those in need of a home as well as supporting economic growth, this increase in the size of the sector needs to be sustainable.

“Growth of this kind naturally increases choice for tenants who may then be able to avoid poor-quality stock.

“This inquiry, however, will assess how to ensure that this is matched by measures that improve safety in the sector as well as securing a regulatory system that supports growth, whilst rooting out the minority of landlords who bring the sector into disrepute and cause misery for tenants.

“I would encourage all those with an interest to have their say.”

Evidence is being collected from a variety of different parties who are willing to offer their views on how the PRS could be improved. Their opinions regarding what level of regulation and possible standards to be introduced are also going to be taken into consideration in the upcoming enquiry; of which a report will be produced, to allow for ministers to add their recommendations.