PARLIAMENTARY DEBATE
Rent and service charge increases in Lewisham East - 26 March 2024 (Commons/Commons Chamber)

I rise to present this petition on behalf of Phoebe’s Place residents in Lewisham East. It recognises that my constituents who live in shared ownership housing in Catford are being affected by rent increases of 9% and service charge increases of up to 62% by their housing provider, Moat Housing. I understand that the building needs to be maintained. However, this huge rise is not the fault of the residents, and Moat Housing must ensure that residents are not left with sudden unexpected costs. The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons calls for Moat Housing to review its decision, and that any increases this year and in future years remain at very least in line with inflation.

Following is the full text of the petition:

The petition of residents of the constituency of Lewisham East,

[Declares that Moat Housing has written to inform the residents in Phoebe’s Place, SE6 2FA, which was developed in 2021 of 27 Flats as part of the affordable housing scheme, regarding increases in rent ranging from 8.6% to 9.4%, and increases in service charge, ranging from 30.3% to 65%; notes that this exceeds current levels of inflation; and further that the petitioners believe that the proposed rent and service charge increases are not justified nor affordable.

The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urge the Government to call on Moat Housing to review their decision and that any increase in this year and in future years remain at the very least in line with inflation.

And the petitioners remain, etc.]

[P002948]