Broken Housing. Let’s Fix It

Jayne in Westminster Hall debate on Residential Estate Management Companies

The way we build, own, and manage homes has become unnecessarily complex—leaving accountability unclear and residents, understandably, frustrated.

Over Easter recess, I visited estates across Truro and Falmouth to hear directly from residents and help untangle issues with property management.

At Eve Parc in Falmouth, I met with Persimmon Homes and the residents to address long-standing concerns. With green spaces managed by Firstport, roads under Persimmon’s control, and council adoption likely still 18 months away, it was clear how easily communication can break down. And with the estate still under

construction until 2026, residents will not be able to take control of their management company.

In Truro, I heard from residents at Lowen Bre and Boscawen Woods who raised issues with Firstport as well—unclear charges, water leaks, parking troubles, and even falling trees. I appreciate the Firstport representatives who showed up and answered questions openly and constructively.

Unfortunately, these are not isolated cases. Across the constituency, I have seen broken drains, unsafe roads, poor parking, and responsibility passed endlessly between builders, housing providers, councils, and managing agents, while homeowners are left to pick up the pieces.

This is not about pointing fingers. It is about fixing a broken system. My small team spends an enormous amount of time chasing down answers that should be readily available. The current structure, especially for leasehold and shared ownership, is not working.

That is why I welcome the Government’s new Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act, which has officially received Royal Assent and will:

• Ban new leasehold houses

• Make it easier for leaseholders to extend leases or take over management

• Require full transparency on charges

  
  

Commonhold reform will also give people real ownership, without being tied to distant landlords or unaccountable agents.

I am not alone in this fight. A recent Westminster Hall debate on Residential Estate Management Companies revealed cross-party frustration (see the full debate here). Thankfully, the Housing Minister has committed to urgent action.