Eve of the Election - Who's Saying What on Property?

The results of the election are as unpredictable as ever and yet could prove a real turning point for the property industry.

So, here's a very brief "Eve of Election" run down of the key points relating to property in each of the three main party manifestos.

LABOUR: Will reform housing benefits, provide tenants in the private rented sector with the right to a written tenancy agreement and establish a national register of landlords. By 2020 every home will have a smart meter, and the private rented sector will be regulated to ensure properties are properly insulated.

CONSERVATIVES: Will scrap HIPs and amend the Use Classes Order to allow properties to be used for any purpose permitted in new local plans. A new green deal will provide every home with up to £6,500 worth of energy improvement, with more available for some properties.

LIBERAL DEMOCRATS: Will scrap HIPs and bring back into use 250,000 empty properties. Will provide loans and grants to improve the energy efficiency of properties.

Results at the 2005 election: Labour 356 seats, Conservatives 198, LibDems 62.

Source Estate Agent Today 05.05.10