Introductory tenancies: A nuisance too far?

Abstract

Part V Chapter I of the Housing Act 1996 empowers local housing authorities and housing action trusts to offer introductory tenancies. This article considers whether introductory tenancies are necessary to solve the 'neighbour nuisance' problem, by examining some of the legal and non-legal remedies currently available to local housing authorities. The article suggests that introductory tenancies will be of little, if any, assistance to local housing authorities. Discussion also focuses on a different rationale underpinning these tenancies; that is, an assault on security of tenure in its own right. This 'hidden agenda' is rationalized by examining government policy towards local housing authorities. Finally, the article considers the possibility that introductory tenancies are the beginning of deregulation in the social rented sector, resulting in parity between the social and private rented sectors.