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Written question asked by Afzal Khan (Labour) on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 11 June 2026. It was answered by Matthew Pennycook (Labour) on Wednesday, 17 June 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Social Rented Housing: Furniture

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department will take steps promote furnished tenancy schemes and to include the Best Practice Guide for Furniture Provision within the Decent Homes Standard.

Answer

The government has no current plans to amend the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 to require the Regulator of Social Housing to set new standards in respect of furniture provision.

People living without essential furniture can access support through their local authority, including via the Crisis and Resilience Fund, to provide discretionary help with essential items such as furniture.

In 2025, the government consulted on proposals to reform the Decent Homes Standard for both the social and private rented sectors. As part of this, we sought views on how furniture provision could be addressed within best practice guidance.

Our response to the consultation was published in January 2026, confirming our commitment to issue guidance relating to furniture provision. The consultation response can be found on gov.uk here.

As we progress work in this area, my Department will continue to engage with a range of stakeholders including tenant organisations, charities and landlords who already provide essential items to tenants in need.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
8136
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Furniture Standards Social rented housing
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk