Episode Title: Simplifying Housing Issues with Jennifer Harris from Tenancy Deposit Scheme

Release Date: 9 Dec 24

Host(s):

• Adam Carter
• Louise Baxter MBE (LouBax)

Guest(s):

• Jennifer Harris – Head of Policy Research and Strategy at the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS)

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Consumer Friend Podcast, Adam and Louise sit down with Jennifer Harris, Head of Policy Research and Strategy at the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS), to discuss their innovative new tool: the My Housing Issue Gateway.

Navigating tenancy disputes and housing rights can be overwhelming for renters and landlords alike. The Housing Gateway is here to change that. Jennifer explains how this free, user-friendly tool provides tailored action plans, letter templates, and phone scripts to empower tenants and landlords to resolve issues effectively.

From damp complaints to deposit disputes, this episode covers how the Gateway is transforming the rental landscape by making housing rights accessible to everyone. Whether you're a tenant facing a difficult landlord or a landlord looking to meet your responsibilities, this episode offers practical advice and insights you can use.

Key Takeaways:

• The Housing Gateway: A free tool to help renters and landlords navigate tenancy issues with personalised action plans.
• Raising Awareness: Over 50% of tenants in England don’t know where to turn for help with housing problems. The Gateway aims to change that.
• Tailored Solutions: Users get customised advice, ready-to-use templates, and scripts to make resolving disputes less stressful.
• Empowering Tenants and Landlords: The Gateway helps bridge the communication gap, improving outcomes and raising standards across the rental market.

Resources & Links:

Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) Website – For information on deposit protection and housing resources.

TDS Charitable Foundation – Access the My Housing Issue Gateway here.

Consumer Friend Website – For additional tenancy advice and resources.

Timestamps:

• [00:00] – Introduction: Adam and Louise introduce the topic and guest, Jennifer Harris.
• [03:15] – Jennifer explains the inspiration behind the My Housing Issue Gateway.
• [08:30] – The problem: Why tenants and landlords often struggle with tenancy issues.
• [15:00] – How the Gateway works: Personalized action plans and templates.
• [23:00] – The importance of empowering tenants and raising standards in the rental market.
• [32:00] – Where to access the Gateway and how it’s being rolled out.
• [40:00] – Final thoughts and advice for tenants and landlords.

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