How "get rich quick" properties are making housing worse (and how to help)

Описание: Canopy and Back on the Map, which feature in this video, are part of the Guardian’s charity appeal which is raising money for grassroots charities that are connecting communities and building solidarity, pride and hope across the country. Donate to the appeal here ► https://guardian.ctdonate.org/?utm_me...

Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) are often promoted as a quick moneymaking opportunity, but at least one in four in England are operating illegally, which frequently leads to vulnerable people living in squalid and cramped conditions.

Poor housing is not just a housing issue; it is a public health emergency. Mold, damp, and disrepair lead to respiratory illness, anxiety, and even death. The NHS spends an estimated £1.4 billion a year treating conditions caused or worsened by poor housing.

The Renters' Rights Bill, which will come into force at the end of 2025 and beginning of 2026, will provide some legal protection for tenants. But the law will not be enough unless it is properly funded and enforced. Currently, local authorities are struggling because they lack sufficient funds for inspections, let alone proactive enforcement.

Canopy in Leeds and Back on the Map in Sunderland, the two grassroots organisations featured in this video, are working to provide decent affordable accommodation in their local area. Locality, a national membership network supporting local community organisations including Canopy and Back on the Map, is one of the five charities the Guardian is raising money for this year in its charity appeal. Donate to the appeal here ► https://guardian.ctdonate.org/?utm_me...

📌 Chapters:

00:00 Introduction
01:14 Illegal HMOs and the dangers of bad housing
02:21 The lack of legal protection
03:13 How to help

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