Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he plans to take to introduce reforms requiring greater transparency and accountability from letting agents regarding the operational condition of essential residential facilities before occupation.

The government expects landlords, and letting agents acting on their behalf, to let properties that are safe and meet appropriate standards.

Where tenants experience issues after moving in, they should first raise them with their landlord or agent. Tenants may also escalate complaints about letting agents to one of the two government-approved agent redress schemes: The Property Ombudsman or Property Redress. Where a property falls short of regulatory standards, including health and safety standards, tenants should contact their local housing authority.

The government is strengthening redress and standards in the sector, including through a new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman and a Code of Practice for residential property agents.

I otherwise refer the hon. Member to the Written Ministerial Statement made 12 October 2026 (HCWS363).