New figures have revealed poor quality English homes are costing the UK £18.6 billion.

The BRE Trust report, 'The True Cost of Poor Housing', shows there is a "significant number of health and safety hazards" in many homes.

Overall, the cost to the NHS from injuries and illnesses attributed to homes in a poor condition is calculated to be £1.4bn per year.

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The research was funded by the Department of Communities and Local Government and the BRE Trust and updates an earlier 2010 report, 'The Real Cost of Poor Housing'.

Dr Ann Marie Connolly, Deputy Director, Health Equity and Mental Health at Public Health England, said: "We welcome this report which adds to existing evidence and our wider understanding of the link between poor housing, demands on NHS care and associated social costs.

"We hope this report will stimulate wider discussions and local action to address the important role that good housing plays in underpinning the health and wellbeing of the people of England."

(LM/MH)