Housing and security in England and Wales: Casualisation revisited

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to use the notion of “casualisation” in an employment context to reflect on similar developments in England and Wales since 1996 which have combined to undermine security of tenure in the private and social rented sectors and exposed the vulnerability of owner occupiers who default on mortgage repayments. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws on observations made by commentators in housing and social policy as well as official papers, statutes and cases. Findings – The problems posed for the longterm security of residential occupiers are highlighted and are shown to result from a combination of factors including the deregulation of the private rented sector, the dependency of housing association on their rental streams, governmental preoccupation with antisocial behaviour in social housing and the principle that mortgage lenders have the right to possession of the mortgaged property. Originality/value – The notion of casualisation is used as an analytical tool to assess changes in law and policy, and to suggest possibilities for reform.