Councils in England have been given new powers to fine private landlords up to £7,000 where serious hazards are found in rented properties, coming into force today.
The penalty, introduced under the Renters' Rights Act, covers 21 Category 1 hazards – the most dangerous classification – including severe damp and mould, faulty electrics, fire risks, structural problems and freezing conditions. Around one in 10 private rented homes is estimated to have at least one such hazard.
Housing Secretary Steve Reed has written to mayors across England urging councils to deploy all enforcement tools available, including existing powers to force repairs, carry out emergency works and recover costs from non-compliant landlords.
‘Renters deserve a safe, secure place to call home and our landmark Renters’ Rights Act gives councils more options to take speedy action against rogue landlords,’ he said.
‘These include the new power to issue a £7,000 penalty to a landlord when there is a hazard like severe damp or mould in a privately rented home – a situation that no family should have to live with.’
From tomorrow, the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) will also be updated for the first time in 20 years, streamlining hazard assessments from 29 categories down to 21 to support faster enforcement action.
Ben Twomey, chief executive of Generation Rent, commented: ‘The council being given the power to fine landlords up to £7000 if they ignore repairs is an essential step towards raising the quality of rented homes. For renters to feel the benefit, though, councils must seek out and take action against those landlords who ignore unsafe conditions and profit from misery.’
