Let’s have a code for tenants and landlords

AS Ireland now has a great number of residential rented properties, local authorities should come up with a code of conduct for tenants and landlords.

This could help put an end to anti-social behaviour by unruly tenants and negligent landlords and would bring us in line with most European countries.

Both old and new residents in cities are plagued by noise, houses left in bad repair and uncollected rubbish.

Third-level institutions should also take responsibility for the behaviour of students living in housing estates whenever they upset the lives of law-abiding people trying to rear their families. Some British universities take steps to stop such bad behaviour.

But landlords have a duty, too, and their names should be made available to local residents’ associations through the local authorities. They should not be able to hide under the umbrella of property agents. Landlords should have to carry out their business to the highest standards, keeping in mind it is in their interest that their properties are kept in good repair.

Some properties are left empty for years without a lick of paint and with grass and weeds growing a foot high. Local authorities should put a tax on such properties. This would bring in revenue which would help councils carry out much-needed repairs to their own social housing.

Nuala Nolan

Bowling Green

Galway