The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has welcomed the Welsh government’s commitment to undertaking a Welsh Housing Survey for 2026/27.
The survey has been commissioned by Jayne Bryant, cabinet secretary for housing and local government, with this being more detailed than the most recent survey carried out in 2017/18.
The new survey will comprise a detailed social survey to gather household information, and a physical home inspection carried out by a qualified surveyor.
“I believe this approach will provide a wider breadth of evidence to more effectively inform policy development and implementation than a housing conditions survey alone,” said Bryant.
“As well as providing detailed information on fuel poverty, energy performance of homes and housing quality across all tenures, it will also enable the gathering of evidence to better support affordable housing, second homes and homelessness policies.”
The NRLA is backing this move, highlighting the need for up-to-date and reliable data to best inform PRS policies.
In addition, the association is calling for the Welsh government to follow this up with regular landlord surveys to track investment trends, property conditions and landlord intentions.
“Good policy starts with good evidence, and this survey has the potential to provide vital insights into housing needs and standards across Wales,” said Ben Beadle, CEO at the NRLA.
“However, to be truly effective, this must mark the beginning of a consistent, long-term programme of data collection that ensures policymakers can make better-informed decisions that benefit landlords, tenants, and communities alike.”
