Inquiry into flat agencies

Press, 25 July 1984, Page 2

Inquiry into flat agencies

PATRICIA HERBERT

in Wellington Flat-listing and associated agencies will be fully investigated under the incoming Labour Government. The Minister of Housingelect, Mr Goff, confirmed yesterday that the matter would be on his agenda in office. The question was put to him by “The Press” because, as a member of the Opposition, he had called for an inquiry into the matter. He said that the investigation would be conducted by the Housing Corporation

but that the Trade and Industry, Department and the new Ministry of Consumer Affairs might become involved at a later stace. Mr Goff said that moves might be made to regulate the industry if that were found necessary. He had “considerable evidence of fly-by-nighters moving in,” of dishonest advertising, and of properties being listed without the landlord’s knowledge or consent. He also believed that at least one bureau was functioning “totally illegally”

and wanted to pursue the material he had to ensure that it-and any others working outside the law were closed. Then, he wanted to ensure that all agencies were working in a way that was “above board” so that the public were “protected from some of the practices that have gone on in the past.” However, Mr Goff said that while a full official investigation was needed it would not take immediate priority. Other issues, among them the true extent of homelessness, would be dealt with first.