Criticisms of the Government Over MoD Homes

Posted under Blog by Ruth

The government has recently faced much criticism over the ‘disgraceful’ conditions of the homes given to military families.

Reports show that over 10,000 houses are in a worse condition than they were a year ago, and 9,000 of these homes lack proper showers. These results come after a report by the Commons Public Accounts Committee.

A third of all the families questioned stated that their accommodation was in ‘poor’ condition. Only half stated that their homes were ‘good’. Of those questioned, a third said the homes were in a filthy state when they first moved in.

Many other problems exist with the homes, including the fact that they have broken locks, no double glazing, and don’t have modern facilities in the kitchens and bathrooms.

Homes are rated in categories of condition one (the top rating), condition two (satisfactory) and condition three or four. As it stands, almost 2,000 homes are in the third condition and 353 were put into condition four.

The homes have been criticised, saying that it is unfair that members of the Armed Forces have to worry about the condition of their home and whether they are being taken care of.

Defence minister Kevan Jones stated that 90 percent of homes are now rated within the top two categories. All of those properties in the bottom to categories will be improved with around £3billion set aside for upgrades, such as double glazed windows and doors.