The Housing Select Committee met on Wednesday 14 January 2026 to discuss Awaab's Law compliance, proposed rent and service charge increases for the Housing Revenue Account, updates on temporary accommodation, and private sector licensing. Key decisions included noting the council's progress in complying with Awaab's Law, approving proposed rent and service charge increases for the upcoming financial year, and reviewing strategies to manage temporary accommodation demand and improve private rented sector standards.

Housing Service's Compliance with Awaab's Law

The committee received an update on the council's implementation of Awaab's Law, which mandates strict timeframes for social landlords to identify, investigate, and remedy serious housing hazards, starting with damp and mould. Dean Cooper, Head of Repairs, and Gillian Douglas, Executive Director of Housing, presented the council's proactive approach, which includes improved reporting mechanisms, a dedicated damp and mould response team, and expanded contractor remits. The report highlighted that since Awaab's Law came into effect in October 2025, the council has responded to 100% of new priority damp and mould cases within the required 24-hour timeframe. While there are currently 309 open cases, the council is working to resolve the root causes of damp and mould, with a 12-week follow-up process to ensure no reoccurrence. The committee noted the ongoing work to address moderate and slight hazards and the investment in IT systems and staff training to manage the increasing demands of regulatory compliance.

Housing Revenue Account (HRA) - Rent Setting

The committee discussed the proposed rent and service charge increases for the 2026/27 financial year. Tony Riordan, Strategic Finance Business Partner, and Gillian Douglas presented the report, outlining a proposed minimum rent increase of 4.8%, which equates to an average of £5.95 per week, subject to government confirmation on rent convergence. Service charges are also proposed to increase, with a 22.28% rise for those with communal heating and a 14.14% increase for others. Garage rents are set to rise by 4.5%. Residents were consulted on these proposals, and their feedback was included in the report. The committee noted the financial pressures on the HRA, including the impact of previous rent caps and the need for investment in stock quality, building safety, and new social homes. The proposed increases aim to ensure the HRA remains sustainable while continuing to deliver essential services and investments.

Update on Temporary Accommodation in Lewisham

Fenella Beckman, Director of Housing Strategy, presented an update on temporary accommodation (TA) in Lewisham. The report highlighted the increasing demand for TA across England, with Lewisham currently providing accommodation for 2,450 households, a decrease from the previous year due to proactive prevention work and procurement efforts. The council's TA portfolio includes nightly-paid properties, privately managed accommodation (PMA), private sector leased (PSL) properties, and council-owned properties. While there has been a reduction in PMA and PSL stock, the council has increased its reliance on nightly-paid accommodation. The report detailed the council's prevention activities, including financial support, landlord negotiations, and income maximisation advice, which have contributed to a homeless prevention rate of 50% and a relief rate of 45%. The Housing Acquisitions Programme has also made significant progress, acquiring 156 properties to date, leading to substantial cost savings. The council is also exploring digital solutions and property inspections to improve efficiency and standards.

Private Sector Licensing Update

Fenella Beckman also provided an update on private sector licensing. Lewisham operates mandatory HMO licensing, additional HMO licensing, and selective licensing schemes to improve property standards and hold landlords accountable. As of December 2025, 1,645 HMO licences have been issued, with an estimated 75% of mandatory HMOs licensed. The selective licensing scheme, implemented in July 2024, has seen 14,083 properties licensed, with a commitment to inspect 60% of licensable properties over the scheme's five-year duration. The report detailed progress in addressing recruitment challenges, IT system improvements, and process enhancements. The committee was also updated on the Renters' Rights Act 2025, which introduces significant reforms to the private rented sector, and the council's preparations for its phased implementation, including enhanced enforcement powers and a new landlord database. The report also outlined the implementation of recommendations from the Private Rented Sector Task and Finish Group, including updated policies for landlords and enhanced tenant information.

Select Committee Work Programme

John Bardens, Committee and Scrutiny Team Leader, presented the committee's work programme. The committee reviewed its forward plan, noting that Awaab's Law would be added to the agenda for the next meeting, with the Major Works and Stock Condition report deferred to March. The committee also discussed the need to clarify terminology around housing delivery in future reports to improve transparency for residents. The forward plan includes items such as the Housing Allocation Policy, Housing Assistance Policy, and updates on temporary accommodation and private sector licensing.