21 Sept 2017

3 Reasons the Housing Shortage Won't get Sorted Soon

Leighton Baker, Builder, Construction Company CEO and Conservative Party Leader, says, "There are 3 reasons why the housing shortage won’t get settled any time soon.

1. It’s a numbers game. We are only building enough houses for the people that are arriving annually, and the more that arrive, the more houses are required. To catch up on the housing shortfall we need population stability for 7.5 months and house building to continue at the current rate. Bringing more people in to build houses just adds to demand and does not address supply line issues.

2. Cost barriers. We are still building houses too big. It's unrealistic for first home buyers to be able to afford a house with ensuites, tiled showers and butlers pantries. We need to build more compact and better quality houses. Expecting first home buyers to be able to save 20% deposit while still paying rent is also dreaming.

3. Quality. The issue is not just with quantity, but quality. Yes we can insulate houses better, but unless we ventilate them properly we are only shifting the mould problems from inside the room, to inside the wall.
The solutions? 1. Stable population for 7.5 months.

2. Nationwide pre-approved house designs and standards.
3. Compulsory 10 year build guarantees ( let insurers vet builders)
4. Mechanical heat recovery ventilation systems.
5. Government funded rent-to-buy options.
6. Get more tradespeople in government to make practical decisions.

"Vote Conservative Party if you really want progress on basic issues," he concludes.

ENDS

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