GOVERNMENT ADDRESSES HOUSEBUILDING

The UK Government has published its response to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) Housebuilding Study, outlining key measures to address issues in the housing industry. The UK Government has published its response to the Competition and Markets Authority's (CMA) housebuilding study, outlining measures to address key issues in the housing sector.

• New Code for Consumers and Ombudsman A new code of conduct will be implemented by housebuilders, along with a New Homes Ombudsman. The homeowners will be able to take on developers who provide poor quality construction or inadequate service.
• Commitment Housing Targets The government has reaffirmed their goal of delivering 1.5 million homes in this Parliament. This includes a significant increase for social housing and affordable housing.
• Addressing "Fleecehold Estates The government will investigate the problem of private estate managers charging unfair fees to homeowners. The government will increase transparency of costs and take measures to enable homeowners to challenge unfair charges in tribunals.
• Better Management of Private Estates There will be an emphasis on ensuring that private estates and amenities are managed better, including guidance to residents' management firms for handling responsibilities such drainage and open space.
• Planning and Infrastructure Reforms The Government will reform the planning system with a revised National Planning Policy Framework and the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, aimed at modernizing and accelerating the housebuilding and major projects.

The government has welcomed the CMA findings and is committed to addressing them, with the aim of improving transparency, accountability and consumer protections in the housing market.