Oxford MP raises issue of tenant service charges
Layla Moran said her inbox was often filled with constituents who face “unfair hikes”
An Oxford MP has called for the reform of ‘wild west’ of service charges that tenants face, in parliament.
Layla Moran, MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, said her inbox was often filled with constituents who face “unfair hikes” in their service charges by housing providers, or inadequate levels of service.
She raised the issue directly to Sir Keir Starmer in parliament, calling for the Government to create a new regulator and introduce a cap on service charges.
She mentioned one of her constituents, Allison, has seen two sets of service charges imposed in the last six months, despite not being in her tenancy agreement.
One set of service charges for the cutting of hedges around her home, which she has done herself for 22 years and one for the cleaning of communal areas which do not exist.
Her daughter Rebecca, whose property is also managed by the same housing association, has seen her service charges increase from £10,984 to £29,045 in just three years.
The Prime Minister responded: “We are implementing the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act, which is long overdue, providing homeowners with greater rights, powers and protections.
“Through this, we will strengthen regulation to protect leaseholders from abuse and poor service … and bring the injustice of the leasehold to an end.”
Speaking after Prime Ministers Questions, Ms Moran MP said: “It is shocking to hear so many stories of constituents who are victims of unfair service charges.
“I urge the Prime Minister to go further in his Government’s reforms and look at the Liberal Democrats’ plans for proper regulation of the wild west that is the service charges sector.”