The Renters Reform Bill is a backwards step

SIR – The introduction of the assured shorthold tenancy under the terms of the 1988 Housing Act was arguably one of the most effective pieces of post-war legislation. By deregulating rent controls, it significantly increased the quantity and quality of rental accommodation on the market.

Market forces and the price mechanism meant that rents remained fair for tenants and landlords alike – until government policy became anti-landlord. It is no surprise that the supply of rental properties has fallen.

The Renters Reform Bill (report, February 29) will be the last straw for many landlords. It is quite simply a reintroduction of rent controls – something we know does not work and will only serve to push rents higher.

The Government needs to think again – and urgently.

Nigel Hindle

Tytherington, Wiltshire

SIR – Madeline Grant (Comment, February 28) rightly points out the faults with leasehold flats and houses. But why does no one ever mention Right to Manage?

Our block of flats took out Right to Manage in 2011 and we have saved thousands of pounds in insurance and costs. We can take charge of appointing builders, organising repairs and arranging insurance if we need to. We do have a managing agent who handles our money on our behalf, but we are still in control of our costs.

The latest problem is that insurance companies and brokers are adding administration charges on top of their commission, which are getting out of proportion to the actual bill.

I would advise as many leaseholders as possible to go for Right to Manage and take control of their properties.

Lesley Watson

Southport, Lancashire