There is no simple, unmediated relation between explanation and policy; not, that is, in the sense that actual policy recommendations are determined by the type of explanation adopted. The adoption of a particular explanatory approach however, we would argue, does influence the scope and form of policy recommendations. Central to the realist-type explanation of decline in rented accommodation set out in the preceding chapters is the notion of diversity, the diverse impact of general processes of housing change such as rental disinvestment and investment within a variety of housing markets. In particular, we have drawn attention to the complex effects of the activities of different types of private landlords in different areas. And from this focus two relatively clear policy directions would appear to follow.

First, the need to devise policies which can discriminate between different types of landlords in order to meet the variety of rented housing need in different locations. Certain types of landlords, in particular commercial landlords, are unlikely to be in a position to provide secure, reasonably priced, rented accommodation whatever the rented housing need of an area. Other groups of landlords, however, may be in a position to adequately meet certain types of rented housing need in particular areas.