Many people would be happy in a bedsit
THERE has been discussion this week about the Government lifting the country’s ban on bedsits. For a start I never realised there was an actual ban on this form of accommodation, and secondly it appears that regulation of this part of the rental market was the problem in the first place and not the actual housing model.
We are in the midst of a housing crisis and unfortunately there is no quick fix, just lots of small changes to be made which in unison will help meet the massive demand for properties. The traditional bedsit was a self contained unit but usually with shared bathroom facilities and common areas.
They were more prominent in cities and if re-introduced, could make a difference in these densely populated areas where there is most need.
I know that there are many students in particular who would not turn their noses up at such an option - after all it is similar to some on-campus accommodation in certain colleges.
They would be cheaper and still offer freedom and independence which sometimes is not the case in lodgings or digs - which has been suggested as an alternative to those who cannot secure private houses or apartments.
If proper standards were set in place like in other parts of the rental market then there is no reason why more smaller units like this couldn’t be made available. The problem lies with landlords who have the nerve to put sub-standard properties on the market and charge a premium.
If renters had more options and a better standard of property to choose from, then there would be no demand for shabby and unsafe accommodation and therefore landlords would have to bring them up to scratch.
The word bedsit does conjure up an image of a freezing cold and tiny little room in an equally run-down building but this does not have to be the case.
The reality is that Ireland needs more properties and when faced with a crisis we have to take whatever measures possible to serve the people best.
Being housed, even in a small property is better than being either homeless or being unable to afford anywhere half decent. That is why so many people are accepting sub-standard properties against their better judgement - because they have no other choice.