Association says poor engagement over legislation will fuel housing crisis

Claims 'scared' property owners are leaving market

Landlords on the Isle of Man are leaving the market because they're 'scared' about government's plans to enforce registration.

The Isle of Man Landlords' Association is blaming a lack of engagement and poor communication and says it will add to the growing housing crisis.

This week the Department of Infrastructure invited property owners were to join the Voluntary Landlord Registration Scheme.

It's in preparation for a mandatory register being introduced next year after the Landlord Registration (Private Housing) Bill of 2020 completed its passage through Tynwald in July.

It will lead to the registration of landlords, their representatives and properties becoming a legal requirement during 2022.

However, Chairman Alan Burrows says people are uneasy about signing up:

The DOI has offered two incentives if landlords sign up early – free registration for the first five years and a registration number to assist in marketing properties.

To be added to the voluntary register landlords must make a self-declaration and provide documentation to prove that they, and their property, meet certain management, condition and safety standards.

However, it doesn't apply to all landlords.

Former Onchan MHK, and now local commissioner, David Quirk contacted Manx Radio to discuss the new voluntary scheme – and says that doesn't sit well: 

With the Island's housing market already in turmoil – and daily talk of a housing crisis – we asked Housing Matters what it made of government's plan.

The charity said: "Housing Matters are supportive of the requirement for landlords to commit to compliance with minimum standards. 

"We strive at all times to work with the Landlord’s Association and Isle of Man Government openly, believing that through such a collegiate transparent approach, genuine improvements can be made for the benefit of those most disadvantaged in our society."

Before registration becomes mandatory, it has to go through a public consultation stage - expected to take place in Spring 2022.

You can find a timeline here.

Manx Radio invited the Department of Infrastructure – and Minister Tim Crookall directly – to comment on the Voluntary Landlord Registration Scheme. We received no response. 

Meanwhile, quote on government's website says: 'It is the Department’s intention to work closely with the private rental sector to make the transition into this regulatory requirement as smooth as possible.'